The Story Of Matilde
Imagine living in a world where all you see is darkness or blurry images simply because you can’t afford a pair of eyeglasses. Imagine being at risk of losing your vision because you can’t access routine cataract surgery. The heartbreaking reality is that some people suffer total blindness simply because they can’t afford a routine cataract surgery that typically takes only 10 to 45 minutes, with a success rate of over 95%. This is the sad reality for millions of people around the world.
Gift of Sight Programme Brings Hope Worldwide.
Under the Gift of Sight programme, Humanity First International has brought hope to over 5,000 individuals by providing life-changing cataract surgeries. This achievement was made possible thanks to the dedication of our medical volunteers and the unwavering support of those who believe in making a difference. Our mission is to create a better world where essential surgeries like these are accessible to everyone, regardless of their circumstances.
Because of your support and the incredible work of our medical staff at Nasir Hospital, Matilde, our 64th patient from the Gift of Sight camp at Nasir Hospital, had a successful eye surgery. In August 2024, she returned to the hospital to express her gratitude.
Matilde’s story is an inspiring story—an 83-year-old woman from the heart of Guatemala who had been suffering from bilateral cataracts for 30 years. After the surgery, her life was completely transformed, from living in a blurred world to being able to see and enjoy the faces of her grandchildren and family. With her heart full, she embraced a brighter future, ready to inspire others still waiting for their chance to see.
Our work continues under the Gift of Sight programme by providing free eye tests, prescription glasses, and cataract surgery across Central America, Africa, and South Asia. Our medical team at Humanity First International in Uganda held free eye camps in Pallisa and Kapchorwa, screening 1,090 patients, providing glasses to 139 individuals, and performing surgery on 429 patients.
Your Donations Matter.
At least 2.2 billion people globally have a vision impairment, and at least 1 billion of those cases could have been prevented. Your support and donations mean so much to us. Because of your generosity, Matilde was able to enjoy the faces of her family again, and you brought a smile to her face. Many others like Matilde are waiting with great hope that one day they will see this world in colour. Their hopes can become a reality with your donations.
