Kingston, Jamaica — July 2026
For 345 Jamaicans, July 2026 brought a life-changing gift—the restoration of their sight.
Zion Care International, in partnership with Duke University Health, the Jamaica Medical Foundation, Kingston Public Hospital (KPH) and other local partners, facilitated a major cataract surgical mission at KPH from July 6–11, 2026.
The initiative brought a visiting team of ophthalmologists and eye-care professionals from Duke University in North Carolina together with KPH’s ophthalmology team to provide free cataract surgery to patients whose vision had been severely affected.
345 Sight-Restoring Surgeries
Led by Dr. Lloyd Williams, the Duke University team worked alongside the KPH Eye Clinic, under the leadership of consultant ophthalmologist Dr. Michelle Leighton.
Over the five-day surgical period, the teams successfully completed 345 cataract surgeries, helping patients regain something many of us take for granted—the ability to see clearly.
The impact extends far beyond the operating theatre. Restored vision can mean renewed independence, an improved ability to work, greater mobility and the opportunity to once again fully participate in family and community life.
Patients also received post-operative medication as part of the initiative.
International Expertise, Jamaican Partnership
The mission demonstrated what can be accomplished when international expertise is combined with strong local partnerships.
Zion Care International worked alongside the Jamaica Medical Foundation, Duke University Health, Kingston Public Hospital, the National Healthcare Enhancement Foundation, the Ministry of Health & Wellness, CHASE Fund, and other partners and volunteers to make the initiative possible.
The mission also created opportunities for professional collaboration and knowledge exchange between the visiting specialists and Jamaica’s ophthalmology professionals.
For Zion Care International, this partnership represents an expansion of the organization’s longstanding healthcare outreach in Jamaica.
Restoring More Than Sight
For someone living with severe cataracts, loss of vision can mean loss of independence.
Simple activities—reading, travelling, working, preparing meals or recognizing the faces of loved ones—can become increasingly difficult.
This is why the success of this mission cannot be measured only by the number of surgeries performed.
Behind each of the 345 procedures was a person, a family and a story.
Restoring sight can restore confidence, independence and hope.
Nearly Two Decades of Service
For almost two decades, Zion Care International has worked to improve access to healthcare for underserved communities, particularly in Jamaica.
While our annual outreach has historically included medical and dental missions, the 2026 ophthalmology programme represented a significant expansion of that commitment.
We extend our sincere appreciation to every surgeon, doctor, nurse, healthcare professional, volunteer, donor, sponsor and partner who contributed to the success of this mission.
Most importantly, we thank the patients and families who placed their trust in our team.
345 surgeries. 345 opportunities to see the world more clearly. Hundreds of lives changed through compassionate care.
Zion Care in the News
The impact of the 2026 Cataract Surgical Mission received national media coverage in Jamaica.
Jamaica Observer — “Sight restored, hope renewed, lives transformed”
The Jamaica Observer reported on the 345 cataract surgeries performed at Kingston Public Hospital and highlighted the collaboration between Zion Care International, Duke University, KPH and the Jamaica Medical Foundation.
Read the full story on the Jamaica Observer website.
Jamaica Gleaner/Star — “Hundreds regain sight through cataract surgery”
The report highlighted the 345 Jamaicans who received cataract surgery and the partnership between the Duke University and KPH ophthalmology teams.
Read the full story through the Jamaica Gleaner/Star.
Additional Coverage — CHASE Fund
The CHASE Fund also highlighted its support for the mission and the collaboration that brought free cataract surgery to KPH.
Read the CHASE Fund’s coverage of the mission.
Together, we are restoring sight, renewing hope and transforming lives.