‘Groundbreaking’ eye surgery for two-month-old part of US medical mission’s work in Guyana

A two-month-old baby in Guyana can now see thanks to a groundbreaking eye surgery performed during the U.S. Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT) 2025 mission.

“One of the most specialised eye surgeries that will now allow that two-month-old to see, it is a groundbreaking surgery, and it was successful,” Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces and President Dr Irfaan Ali revealed. President Ali delivered remarks at a luncheon hosted by State House on Friday.

This is the second LAMAT mission to Guyana, however, it is also the first military-to-military medical engagement between Guyana and the United States.

During the two-week exchange, LAMAT delivered critical healthcare and shared knowledge with local medical professionals to strengthen Guyana’s healthcare system. President Ali said it was not just about the mission coming and leaving but “leaving knowledge behind.”

“What makes this mission even more meaningful is that it touches the lives of ordinary Guyanese in a very practical way,” President Ali said.

He further commended the team’s exceptional service, noting that their presence represents more than a fleeting visit and described it as a symbol of trust, partnership, and continuity between the two nations.

Major General Melissa A. Coburn, Commander of the 22nd Air Force, said during remarks that LAMAT has delivered critical care across multiple specialties in Guyana and the Caribbean region.

“The data from our combined effort throughout this region for LAMAT is impressive.

“Over 6,300 patients treated, over 480 surgical operations, 91 pieces of critical medical equipment serviced and repaired including a surgical sterilizer, dental chairs and dental equipment. Over 13,000 hours of critical redeployment skills for US medics to make them worldwide deployable 422 hours of knowledge exchanges on topics ranging from prehospital trauma care, vascular surgery and emergency response,” the Major General said.

Meanwhile, Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan highlighted the importance of the LAMAT mission to Guyana.

“While we have done several engagements in other fields, this one is pretty much an important one,” Brigadier Khan said.

The Army Chief also highlighted that three Guyanese were also part of the LAMAT team.

“This is significant because we all work for a better world, starting with our region and starting with our country,” he said.

Additionally, President Ali noted the evolution of the defence partnership between Guyana and the US with this recent medical army mission.