OUR WORK
EYE CARE CLINIC
We aim to provide eye care for all eye care problems. Blindness from cataracts is the leading cause of blindness in South Africa which afflicts 240,000 people. However, it must be noted that it is reversible by a simple 20-minute procedure. The problem is that many people from low-income families cannot afford to pay for the surgery and therefore end up fully blind the longer their cataracts are not treated.
Thus, the Eiohn Hayes Eyecare Outreach Program allows us to bring the service to the patient in the form of an outreach clinic service in Makhanda which operates three days a week. We have collaborated with local health services to mobilize patients for clinic days for diagnosis.
EYE SURGERY THEATRE
FREE SPECTACLES PROGRAM
Access to eyeglasses has been made easier through partnership with local optometry practice, Dr Davies Optometrists. We provide free spectacles to scholars under 18 and to other patients including our cataract surgery patients who need glasses after surgery.
This also reduces the impact of blindness on livelihoods and education as some of the caregivers are young children who must miss days of school at a time as they are too busy helping their blind or visually impaired elderly relatives.
RESOURCES
We have received funding and support from different individuals, organizations, the Department of Health, and Settler’s Hospital. We also have been assisted by several volunteers and sponsors. Without your support we would not be able to fulfill our dream of helping the community and changing lives. Your donations have such a huge impact on people’s lives.