OUR IMPACT
Blindness can impose a huge physical, emotional, and economic burden on the lives of not only the patient but that of their caregivers too. The impact of this foundation on the lives of individuals and families is truly life changing as suddenly previously blind or visually impaired people can resume their jobs which are crucial for providing for their families’ livelihoods.
The Eiohn Hayes Eyecare Outreach Program has already managed to positively impact the lives of hundreds of people since its launch in October 2022.
We have had successful cataract screenings, surgeries done, and post ops all completed for 80 cataract patients from October 2022 to October 2023, and patients received glasses. A total of 3 pterygiums surgeries were also performed on outreach patients in October 2023, and an outreach clinic that runs three days a week every week (all funded by the Eiohn Hayes Eyecare Outreach Program).
Eyecare and Cataract Outreach Program
Blindness has such a debilitating effect on someone’s life as it can lead to loss of career, destabilization of an entire family’s livelihood, complete upheaval of the world as they know it and depression to mention a few. Low-income families in the Makhanda area struggle to access the quality eye care they need as there are no public eye care facilities within a reasonable distance. Patients from this area in need of cataract surgery cannot afford to travel to access treatment in the nearest large city, Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth).
The foundation established outreach services that provide access to clinic services and surgery to people in and around Makhanda. The project draws on highly qualified clinical and surgical staff and volunteers, as well as resources and support from local and provincial hospitals.
The outreach program treats blindness by performing cataract, pterygium & glaucoma surgeries, as well as treating other eye conditions, with medication as required. By combining public and private resources this initiative makes excellent and effective use of existing structures. This way surgery patients have access to eyeglasses through partnership with local optometry practice, Dr Davies Optometrists and access to government pharmacy and medication through partnership with local Settlers Hospital.
ONGOING PROJECTS
Partner with us to transform the lives of multiple members of the community and their loved ones.
Find a sponsorship opportunity that’s ideal for you by going through our Ongoing Projects.
