UIM Aviation: A New Vision

UIM Aviation works in the rugged Sierra Madre Mountains of Mexico and recently partnered with Hospital Mision Tarahumara to provide logical support for a cataract surgical project. The hospital serves the Tarahumara people group who have lived in Mexico’s “Copper Canyon” since the 16th century.

A team of surgeons, ophthalmologists, and nurses performed eye surgeries for 75 patients who would likely have never received the procedure otherwise.

Although the Tarahumara are resilient and can walk for hours, walking is more arduous and often impossible once cataracts claim their sight. It’s also more dangerous to navigate cliffs, forest brush, and steep, winding roads.

To ease that burden, UIM Aviation to provided more than 50 flights to rural communities in the Copper Canyon, even landing on the main street of a village. A 15-minute flight can save more than 8 hours of walking to the hospital.

“The cataract surgeries are a second chance at life,” said Willy Bustinza, a surgeon.