“It’s bad, really bad. They are not having any eye care. Not at all.”
That’s how Dr. Carl Dumas, an ophthalmology resident working at the Public Eye Hospital in Haiti described the state of eye health in his country, which has a population of 11 million people and only 3 optometrists.
Now in its 9th year, and coordinated by Optometry Giving Sight, the World Sight Day Challenge invites eye care professionals, their staff, patients, industry partners and students of Optometry to raise funds throughout September and October to help the 600 million people around the world who are needlessly vision impaired, including those in Haiti.
“Participation in the Challenge is fun and easy to do,” said Clive Miller, CEO of Optometry Giving Sight. “Whether you choose to write a check, purchase a wristband, become a monthly donor, run a practice promotion such as I Care & Share, or get involved in fundraising, this is the time when the global optometric profession and industry rallies together to ensure that all people can gain access to the vision care they need.”
Mr. Miller said that fundraising activities in the practice, office or school are always a highlight of the campaign. Last year saw practitioners shaving their heads; practice staff proudly wearing their t-shirts throughout October; companies finding creative ways to engage their staff and management (having the boss wash a staff member’s car is always worth paying for!); patients happily joining in the fun, and students trying to win the coveted Global Fundraising School of the Year Award!
“The World Sight Day Challenge is an excellent opportunity for our office to let our patients and local community know that we contribute to the global cause of vision loss worldwide,” said Dr. Tammy Tully of Seaside Eye Associates (S.E.A.), Myrtle Beach, SC.
“All of us at S.E.A. and our patients are so excited about the event and the charitable spirit that is conveyed we create an entire month of giving sight! It always brings a smile to our hearts to be able to participate in the WSDC, and we are humbled by those who choose to take the challenge along with us,” added business partner Dr. Amanda Lee.
“We help people to see every day at Linden Optometry, but with Optometry Giving Sight we can help others around the world receive the eye care they need to be successful in life. We are thrilled to be a part of the World Sight Day Challenge,” said Steve Linden of Linden Optometry, A P.C., in Pasadena, CA.
To donate, or pledge your participation by selecting one of our Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum Award levels, please visit
www.givingsight.org or call 888 OGS GIVE. Optometry Giving Sight has t-shirts and wristbands for purchase and materials to help you promote your involvement in the practice, at work or at your School.
