Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide, and Sri Lanka faces this challenge as well, with 70% of those suffering from blindness being affected by cataracts, according to the World Health Organisation. While cataract surgery is one of the most effective healthcare interventions, it remains inaccessible for many people in rural, low-income households. Long waiting lists at public hospitals add to the difficulty, delaying much-needed surgeries for those who cannot afford private healthcare.
In Sri Lanka, the government health service does not provide the lens required for cataract operations, nor the eye drops needed post-surgery, making this otherwise curable condition an ongoing struggle for many. This is where the generosity of donors like Matt Sugden and Drew Thompson plays a crucial role in changing lives.
Their recent donation of Rs. 517,713.75 covered the full cost of cataract surgeries for eight individuals who were unable to afford the procedure. The surgeries, which totalled Rs. 507,966, have now been successfully completed, giving these beneficiaries the gift of sight and a new lease on life. These life-altering procedures enable people to return to work, care for their families, and live independently once again.
The Foundation of Goodness is proud to have facilitated these surgeries, and this isn’t the first time. Many individuals in the past have benefited from similar cataract interventions made possible by kind donors. By supporting such initiatives, we can continue to bridge the healthcare gap, ensuring that those in need, especially from rural areas, can regain their vision and improve their quality of life. This project exemplifies how charitable efforts can make a lasting impact.
