The consequences of eye health already cost the global economy billions every year.
Good vision is named as foundational to economic and societal participation. It results in healthier workforces and higher productivity, better attendance and educational outcomes at schools, greater participation in society, less injuries and less dependence on the wider health and welfare systems.
Edward Okot is a man of service – an engineer who brings safe drinking water to his community in Apac, Uganda. When cataracts blinded Edward, everything came to a halt. "You become a dependent [person]," he remarked. "You rely on others to do everything." He worried about paying the bills and putting food on the table. He feared his children would drop out of school. Most of all, he dreaded that he couldn’t be the father- or provider- his family needed. Edward was diagnosed with cataracts during one of the Seva Foundation's community screening events in the country.
After cataract surgery, Edward’s vision was restored. His once-dim outlook has now transformed into unbridled optimism.
"After they took the bandage off, it was as if I was in a new world. I was excited!"
Now, he’s back to work. Back to supporting his family. And back to building wells for his community. One surgery changed Edward’s life, and in the process, gave his family and community a chance at their own success.
Photo by Joe Raffanti.
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