Restoring sight with SEE International

Vistoria Paulus Oshendje Villange first noticed her eyesight deteriorating while working in a local field in Onandjokwe, Namibia. The 69-year old was dismayed to realize that she was unable to tell where she had already planted seeds. Unfortunately, the surgery needed to correct her eyesight would cost $5,000—an unattainable amount for Vistoria. She resigned herself to living without her sight—that is, until she learned about SEE International’s nearby clinic.

Vistoria shared her hardship with billions of people worldwide. Of the 2.2 billion blind or visually-impaired individuals around the globe, 75% have treatable conditions. Unfortunately, 90% of those affected cannot afford or access treatment. As a result, these preventable conditions can have a disastrous effect on a child’s ability to learn, an adult’s ability to work, and the overall quality of life for anyone afflicted.

As part of a World Sight Day awareness campaign, SEE International raised funds to provide sight-restoring care for over 300 blind or vision-impaired individuals in Onandjokwe. It was here that Vistoria’s sight was restored at no cost to her or her family. Just days after the operation, Vistoria was already able to see objects over 150 feet away. Her sight was better than it had ever been.

SEE International’s mission is to end preventable blindness around the world by expanding access to high-quality eye care. They provide supplies, support, and volunteer medical teams to perform free vision screenings and surgeries in over 40 countries worldwide, including the U.S. Their large network of eye care professionals treat cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and other conditions in local clinics.

This month, WellReceived donated $3,000 to SEE International. As part of our Giving Back initiative, we donate 1% of our profits to non-profit organizations who increase access to healthcare for those in need. We are honored to further SEE International’s mission to expand access to sustainable eye care systems in resource-scarce communities.

Do you know of a deserving medical-focused charity? Let us know in the comments!