Our preferred approach to providing free surgeries is through screening camps set up in poor, hard-to-reach communities. A dedicated field team invites all individuals with vision problems to attend. After screening, reading glasses are provided to those who need them, while patients diagnosed with cataracts are transported to a partner hospital.

At the hospital, their vision is measured precisely, and cataracts are removed using the Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS) technique, with an Intra Ocular Lens (IOL) implanted. Patients stay overnight and receive a follow-up check the next morning before returning to their village, equipped with antibiotic eye drops and detailed usage instructions. They are encouraged to come back for follow-up visits at one week, one month, and three months.

It is extraordinary that such life-changing surgeries can be provided at such a low cost in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). We feel privileged to help so many people and make a significant impact in this way.

The cost of simple reading glasses, when purchased in bulk, is typically under a dollar. However, ensuring sustainable access remains a significant challenge, as glasses are often lost, broken, or become obsolete.

At the outreach camps we have supported, reading glasses are distributed free of charge. We have distributed over 300,000 pairs but this number barely scratches the surface compared to the 1.5 billion people worldwide unable to see sufficiently well enough to learn, read, or work.

Addressing this massive global need requires innovative and scalable solutions to provide consistent, long-term access to affordable vision correction.