Optical Prism October 2019 | Page 45

Glimpses WORLD SIGHT DAY CHALLENGE THIS MONTH The World Sight Day Challenge is Optometry Giving Sight’s largest fundraising campaign of the year. The challenge brings the global optometry community together to raise money and awareness to help provide eye care to those in need. The challenge is focused on World Sight Day, Oct. 10, and runs throughout October. “It is estimated that as much as 80 per cent of what a child learns is processed through the visual system; an eye examination and glasses can mean the difference between a life of poverty and a life of opportunity,” says Dr. Juan Carlos Aragon, chair of Optometry Giving Sight. “A child’s ability to play and learn and to contribute at home and school is largely dependent on good vision.” For the past 13 years, thousands of optometrists, staff members, patients and students have taken the World Sight Day Challenge and made a difference by making a tax-deductible donation and/or by raising funds in their practice, school or company. Optometry Giving Sight encourages everyone to join the World Sight Day Challenge and help transform the lives of people around the world by helping to provide access to eye care. To donate or pledge participation, please visit: www.givingsight.org Optical Prism | October 2019 45