Caring for Our Community: Operation Sight Program

Surgeons, medical personnel, and staff donate their time with the Moran Eye Center’s Global Outreach Division throughout the year to provide sight-restoring cataract surgery to Utahns who could not otherwise afford it.

Kaufoou, a 59-year-old with disabilities and without income who relies heavily on her family, received one of 114 cataract surgeries performed through the program in Fiscal Year 2024.

Her sister, Losaline, turned to Moran when Kaufoou needed help. She held her sister’s hand as she underwent the surgery.

“Today, Moran made Kaufoou’s quality of life so much better,” said Losaline. “We both love roses and now she can see and help in our garden. She also loves to help around the house and go to church. Now, she can make the most of all her favorite things. We are so happy and grateful!”

Created in 2012, the Operation Sight Program is funded solely by generous donors and serves as a model for the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery Foundation Operation Sight network. It is one of several Moran outreach programs providing local care where it is needed most.

“Increasing access to eye care to strengthen our local communities is an important part of our mission,” said Division Medical Director Craig J. Chaya, MD.

Brian C. Stagg, MD, right, checks with a patient and her sister after cataract surgery.

Nick Mamalis, MD, right, performs cataract surgery.

Volunteer Carmen Little removes a patient’s eye patch after his surgery.

Jeff Pettey, MD, MBA, examines a patient before her surgery.

Volunteers, from left, Chris Fairclough, Lindsey Fairclough Little, and Carmen Little.

Lydia Sauer, MD, talks with a patient post-surgery.