Rebecca Chirenga
Cataract Eyes Surgery
Zimbabwe

In June 2023, I underwent cataract removal surgery in both eyes. Unfortunately, due to poor post-operative care, I lost vision in my left eye. The procedure was mishandled, leading to a blockage in the duct responsible for draining aqueous humor. This caused a severe buildup of intraocular pressure—reaching as high as 73—which ultimately damaged my optic nerve and resulted in permanent vision loss.

Throughout this ordeal, I endured intense, unrelenting pain, which my doctor failed to manage. In December, I was forced to undergo an emergency trabeculectomy to relieve the pressure and prevent further damage. Despite the trauma and irreversible disability I now live with, I have received no compensation for the surgical error. Sadly, in my country, there are no systems in place to protect patients from such medical negligence. The emotional and physical toll remains unaddressed, and my life has been significantly impacted—personally, professionally, and financially.

On July 6, 2023, I underwent cataract removal surgery on my left eye. What should have been a routine procedure quickly turned into a nightmare. Complications developed soon after, and they were poorly managed by the healthcare provider. My eye became severely inflamed, painful, and I began to lose vision. Despite numerous visits and repeated pleas for help, the pain persisted, and no effective treatment was provided.

The intraocular pressure in my eye rose to dangerous levels, causing irreversible damage to my optic nerve. I spent countless nights in excruciating pain, unable to sleep, with no relief or clear answers. The surgeon eventually admitted to the error, but when I sought compensation or even additional medical support, he refused to take responsibility. I tried to pursue legal action, but the costs were too high, and there was no real pathway to justice.

Today, I live with permanent vision loss in my left eye—a disability that has significantly impacted my career, daily life, and mental well-being. But through this painful experience, I found something unexpected: a voice.

What I endured gave me a deeper understanding of the gaps in patient rights, especially in systems where medical accountability is lacking. It awakened a purpose in me—to speak up not only for myself, but for others who suffer in silence. My story has become a tool for awareness, advocacy, and change. I now raise my voice for patient safety, for accountability, and for the many who have no access to justice or support. Though I lost my vision, I gained clarity on the importance of speaking out.