Creating a new reality and a world of difference
Imagine a world without sight . Now imagine a world without sight in the midst of tremendous poverty and despair . That ’ s the reality for more than 1.5 million people in Pakistan who suffer with vision loss . Of those , more than 165,000 are affected by conditions that can be treated through corneal transplantation .
Unfortunately , the 6th most populous country in the world also suffers from a lack of infrastructure and limited access to medical resources ( among other turmoil ) that further prevents patients from receiving the care they so desperately need .
Eversight International is committed to creating a new reality for these people by bringing safe , reliable eye banking solutions to developing nations around the globe . " We have an incredible opportunity to bring humanitarian aid to the region and new hope to the Pakistani people ," says Collin Ross , Executive Director of Eversight International . “ Through our network , we can provide the resources and knowledge to change the future of sight restoration for the people of Pakistan .”
For many years , Eversight has provided tissue to surgeons in the region , but the overwhelming need requires a more intense focus on long-term solutions .
To that end , Eversight is working to build a fully functional eye bank in Pakistan run by local professionals using our clinical best practices . In addition , we are committed to increasing the availability of corneal tissue by building a greater cultural acceptance of eye , organ and tissue donation through community partnerships and educational programs .
Collaboration is key
“ It is crucial that we form strong , meaningful partnerships with local governments , medical professionals and opinion leaders in the region in order to be successful ,” Ross said . “ We ’ ve already made great strides in gaining the trust of local leaders and now we ’ re poised to bring our ideas to life .”
The project has captured the attention of supporters in the United States too , with one Pakistani-American businessman pledging $ 250,000 in support of the initiative .
“ Philanthropic support like this is a direct result of the community ’ s faith in our mission and is essential to the international program ’ s long-term sustainability . When we are true stewards of the gift [ eye donation ], people naturally want to support our efforts and help grow our impact .”
AFGHANISTAN
INDIA
Collin Ross , Eversight International Executive Director ( center ), meets with partners from the region . Spring 2016 | VISION | Page 11