Free Spectacles for 1,322 Rural Keralites

“I’ve wanted to read the newspaper, but I could only see the big letters. Now I can see even the small letters clearly. Thank you.” This was one of many comments given by people who attended free eye camps and spectacle distributions in and around BCMC (Believers Church Medical Centre) in Mala, Kerala.

Eight rural areas were impacted by these camps from 28th September to 2nd October 2009.

Dr. Dave, an optometrist from Wisconsin, USA, traveled to conduct the camps along with a local ophthalmologist, Dr. Roland.

A team of volunteers and hospital staff made arrangements, organized registration and assisted the doctors. Each day, around 300 people attended the camps.

In total, the medical team saw 1,582 patients and gave away 1,322 free spectacles to those in need. In addition, the team detected 132 cataract cases.

Some patients had not been able to afford spectacles even though their eye problems were quite severe. They were thankful for the free service.

Believers Church works holistically to help people of all communities. This series of eye camps was one of many medical programs organized to uplift the needy in South Asia.