A Collaboration Between the Rotary Club of Portsmouth, Medical Ministry International, the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica, the Dominica China Friendship Hospital, and the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services

In a powerful demonstration of international collaboration and service to humanity, the Rotary Club of Portsmouth (RCP) and Medical Ministry International (MMI), together with the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, and the Dominica China Friendship Hospital (DCFH) successfully completed the 2025 RCP MMI Eye Surgery Medical Mission.

Launched under the patronage of Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, this mission has made a tangible and lasting impact on the lives of Dominicans—restoring vision to 80 individuals who were once legally blind, partially blind, or fully blind due to cataracts. Over the span of two weeks, patients received cataract surgeries, marking not only a medical success, but also a profound restoration of independence, dignity, and hope.

Each patient’s story is a testament to the transformative power of care and collaboration. As recalled by McMarara Joseph, President of the Rotary Club of Portsmouth, “An elderly man arrived at the clinic unable to see the chair before him or navigate the room without help. Upon returning for his checkup  the following day he walked out unassisted. Another patient, upon regaining sight, joyfully recognized a familiar voice, exclaiming, “Sammy, you that there?” These are not just medical outcomes—they are moments of reconnection, renewal, and rebirth.”

This mission would not have been possible without the tireless dedication of our collective partners:

• Hon. Cassanni Laville, Minister of Health, Wellness and Social Services, and the team from the Ministry for facilitating all required approvals and ensuring seamless coordination throughout the mission.
  
  
• Ms. Nancy Francis, CEO of DCFH, and Dr. Donald C. Peters, President of the Dominica Hospitals Authority, for their unwavering leadership and the exemplary service delivered by the medical and administrative teams at the Brenda Strafford Foundation Eye Center.
  
  
• The outstanding medical volunteers from Medical Ministry International, including Dr. Barbara Skinner, Dr. Ralph Crew, and Dr. Dan—for whom Dominica became the first new mission country in over a decade. Their compassion and expertise were the driving force behind every successful procedure.
  
  
• The Rotary Club of Portsmouth, whose local coordination—spearheaded by Past AG Sammy Wyke, McMarara Joseph and Vice President and Projects Chair Lizra Fabien—ensured the mission was well executed on the ground.
  
  
• The Rotary Club of Dominica and all supporters of past vision initiatives, particularly VOSH, whose 30-year legacy of eye care laid the foundation for this mission’s success.
  
  

This mission is part of a broader legacy of service by the Rotary Club of Portsmouth and its partners, which includes projects such as the refurbishment of the emergency room at Portsmouth Hospital, distribution of thousands of devices to students during the pandemic, training and resourcing of beekeepers, the provision of citrus plants to northern farmers, and the installation of playgrounds in schools. The success of the Eye Surgery Medical Mission reaffirms our belief that strategic partnerships—rooted in service and shared purpose—can transform lives.

Mr. Joseph shared, “We extend our deepest gratitude to the patients and their families, whose strength and trust made this mission meaningful. We also thank the people of Dominica, the medical fraternity, and the countless volunteers and supporters—both local and international—who brought this initiative to life. Together, we see a brighter Dominica.”

About Rotary Club of Portsmouth:

The Rotary Club of Portsmouth in Dominica is a local service organisation dedicated to making a positive impact in the community. With a focus on service above self, the club engages in various initiatives to address local needs and create sustainable solutions.