Spotlight on Success: Peter Oyuga
When Peter finally arrived in Boston his condition had deteriorated further and many of his bodily functions had begun to shut down. Dr. Fay knew Peter was not strong enough to withstand the operation and that he would not live long, but he kindly wanted to do everything possible to make the boy’s final time on earth more bearable. Peter was made comfortable, and he passed away with the dignity and grace he so deserved. Although Dr. Fay could not remove the tumors while the boy was alive, he did so after his passing to bring peace to the family that would be able to remember Peter as they had known him – a young, vibrant child playing football with his friends. Peter’s father was relieved to know that his child’s death in the U.S. spared him the agonizingly painful death he would have experienced in their remote village in Uganda.
Dr. Aaron Fay, Director of Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery at MASS Eye and Ear with Peter.
Fay DeAvignon knows that Peter’s life was not in vain. “He was a courageous little boy”, she said, “but he was more than that. He brought us a message. He touched the hearts and souls of everyone who met him and his brief life has taught us that we must be aware of the pitiful lack of healthcare that imperils the lives of so many in countries like Uganda and that we must do something to bring about change.”
Dr. Fay with Peter in photo at left.
Peter was still alive in this photo. Dr. Fay, who has a very calming presence, had just finished speaking with Peter, only to Peter. It was a special moment for those who witnessed it.
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