A candid photograph capturing the weariness of Dr. Truong, a 62-year-old doctor from Hue Eye Hospital, has stirred significant attention on social media platforms. The image, taken by a colleague on Friday, highlights the tireless dedication of Dr. Truong to his patients.
On the day the photo was snapped, Dr. Truong, along with 15 colleagues from Hue Eye Hospital and Professor Hattori Tadashi from Japan, renowned for his expertise in ophthalmic surgery and as the initiator of the Asia-Pacific Prevention of Blindness Association, conducted free cataract surgeries for 42 individuals at A Luoi District Health Center in Thua Thien – Hue province. The team had also provided eye examinations for over 500 individuals at the same location the previous day.
Reflecting on the moment captured in the photograph, Dr. Truong recounted, “I was so exhausted after the surgeries that I found a spot in a corridor to briefly close my eyes.” He emphasized that the photo was spontaneous, and the subsequent attention it garnered took him by surprise.
The Hue Eye Hospital team has a longstanding commitment to offering free eye examinations and surgeries to financially challenged patients, both within the hospital premises and by reaching out to isolated communities directly.
“To ensure maximum assistance to our patients, we often conduct surgeries from morning until midday to the afternoon,” Dr. Truong explained. “All procedures were carried out seamlessly.”
Dr. Truong’s dedication to eye care has earned him recognition, including the “Eye Health Heroes – Heroes in the Fight Against Blindness” award in Nepal in 2017. Additionally, he has collaborated with local authorities to establish five refraction centers at the district level, aiming to enhance access to eye care services.
Moreover, Dr. Truong has extended his efforts by sharing his expertise with neighboring regions, advocating for the establishment of additional refraction centers. This initiative aims to expand the network of eye care services, facilitating regular eye examinations and ensuring timely treatment for the community.
