Long-serving field officer Peter Kwaza is expected to undergo cataract surgery on Monday, 10 August, after support from the community helped raise the required R36,000 in record time. The operation is set to restore vision in his right eye.

Kwaza has spent the past 18 years rescuing domestic and wild animals, but developed a severe cataract in his right eye. It progressed rapidly and has left him able to see little more than light in that eye.

Peter Kwaza has spent the past 18 years rescuing domestic and wild animals. Photo supplied

The Virginia SPCA appealed to the public for assistance after learning that surgery could be performed as early as the beginning of August at a reduced cost of R36,000, compared with the usual cost of around R60,000.

Without medical aid, Kwaza had previously been placed on a waiting list of about 300 patients at Bongani State Hospital, where he continues to wait for treatment.

“Today we are overwhelmed with gratitude to announce that, thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, the fundraising goal for Peter’s surgery was reached in record time,” said Virginia SPCA chairperson Thea Smith.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to every person who donated and shared the campaign. Your kindness has given Peter hope. His left eye will also require surgery in the future, and anyone who would still like to contribute can donate towards his fund.

The fundraising goal for Peter’s surgery was reached in record time. Photo screenshot

“Peter has served as a dedicated field officer at Virginia SPCA for years, and there is hardly an animal, wild or domestic, that he cannot safely bring to rescue. He simply does not know how to say no; Peter is there whenever an animal needs him.

“Peter has dedicated so much of his life to helping others, losing his vision places not only his work at risk, but also his independence and quality of life.”

The organisation has encouraged those who still wish to contribute to donate towards his ongoing medical fund. And it believes restoring his sight will allow him to continue doing what he has dedicated much of his life to; rescuing, protecting and caring for animals in need across the region.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.