Yanjami's Story
In the remote community of Parnngurr in Western Australia, Yanjami Peter Rowlands, a senior Martu elder, holds a deep connection to his land and culture. As an active member of the Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa Rangers, Yanjami teaches younger generations about the cultural significance of Martu country, ensuring that invaluable traditions endure.
But in recent years, Yanjami’s vision began to deteriorate due to diabetic retinopathy, a serious eye condition linked to diabetes. This threatened not only his eyesight but also his ability to guide and mentor the next generation of rangers.
A journey for sight
Living in an extremely remote community, accessing specialised eye care is no simple task. When Yanjami’s long-distance vision began to fail, he sought help from The Lions Outback Vision team, who visited the nearby community of Jigalong. There, a visiting optometrist prescribed him glasses to correct his vision. During the consultation, the optometrist detected signs of diabetic retinopathy and referred him to Associate Professor Angus Turner, an ophthalmologist based in Port Hedland.
Accompanied by his wife, Thelma Hudson, Yanjami made the arduous journey from Parnngurr to Newman—a five-hour drive along unsealed roads—before catching the weekly bus to Port Hedland.
In Port Hedland, Dr Hessom Razavi performed laser treatment on Yanjami’s eyes, halting the progression of diabetic retinopathy and preserving his remaining vision.
“This early laser treatment will preserve Yanjami’s vision,” Dr Razavi explained. “With his new glasses, Yanjami will have excellent vision.”
A vision for the future
After spending a week in Port Hedland awaiting the next bus, Yanjami and Thelma returned home with a renewed sense of hope. Thanks to the intervention, Yanjami can continue his vital cultural work, teaching Martu rangers and young people about the land’s stories and traditions.
“I want to look after my eyes so I can go out and show the country to ranger boys and young people,” Yanjami said. “We go together, boys and girls.”
Diabetic retinopathy: a growing challenge
Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness among working-age people worldwide. The condition often starts without symptoms, gradually damaging the retina and leading to irreversible vision loss if left untreated.
Early detection and timely treatment, such as laser therapy, can prevent severe outcomes. Yet, for people like Yanjami living in remote areas, accessing these services requires overcoming significant barriers.
The Fred Hollows Foundation, in partnership with programs like The Lions Outback Vision, is committed to bringing quality eye care to people in the most remote parts of Australia. By providing accessible and timely treatment, the Foundation is not only restoring sight but also helping people like Yanjami continue their vital contributions to their communities.
Yanjami’s story is a testament to the power of sight and the importance of ensuring no one is left behind, no matter where they live.
