In a historic first-ever corneal transplant procedure, surgeons at the Armed Forces Institute of Ophthalmology (AFIO) in Rawalpindi restored the vision of two soldiers using donated corneas from a deceased woman.
The donor, Mrs. Syed Zafar Mehdi Askari, had generously pledged to donate her eyes prior to her passing. Her corneas were transplanted into two soldiers, 30-year-old Ali and 26-year-old Falak Sher, both of whom had lost their eyesight due to severe injuries sustained during counter-terrorism operations.
Using advanced medical technology, AFIO’s skilled surgeons conducted the intricate surgeries with exceptional precision. The procedure restored sight to both soldiers, marking a significant breakthrough in ophthalmic care within the country.
Major General (R) Syed Zafar Mehdi Askari, husband of the late donor, expressed profound pride and gratitude for his wife’s selfless gift.
Their daughter, Zahra Mehdi, shared, “It is a tremendous honor for our family that my mother’s donation has helped bring sight back to two brave soldiers. Her generosity continues to be a lasting blessing.”
The Pakistan Army’s spokesperson lauded the AFIO medical team for this landmark achievement, emphasizing its embodiment of compassion, sacrifice, and hope.
Following this landmark surgery, AFIO intends to launch a nationwide campaign promoting eye donation, aiming to extend the gift of sight to more individuals in need.
