admin
H-Metro Reporter
HUNDREDS of patients benefitted from a free eye treatment conducted in Epworth on Saturday.
The free eye testing programme was conducted by Vision Arcade Eye Care Foundation at Domboramwari Primary School from April 10 to April 13.
Free eye testing, free eye drops, free prescription glasses and sponsored cataract surgeries were done. Vision Arcade Eye Care Foundation team leader, Edwin Etefia, said they want to benefit patients beyond the urban areas.
“We have seen that most people in Africa are failing to have their eyes checked because they don’t have money hence the coming in of this initiative,” he said.
“It is very sad that the disease is now becoming more common in young people.
“It is our responsibility to cater for the needs of our people and this programme is meant to benefit everyone.
“We shall make sure that we reach many parts of the country but still we managed to treat patients who came from as far as Masvingo, Mutare and Murehwa.”
Etefia added:
“We are also encouraging those Christian denominations to get treated despite what they believe in.
“We saw it fit to partner with other charity organisations to help our elderly restore their eyesight.
“We have realised that many people from marginalised communities are most affected.”
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude.
“We thought that it was a joke but I later realised that it’s true after witnessing my neighbour getting treated,” said Luyanda Nkomo.
“I am very glad that the government has come up with such an alternative.
“We are worried that even young ones are also being affected.
“We hope that the same should continue happening across the country.”
Online Reporter