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	<title>Sights On HealthSights On Health | Sights On Health</title>
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	<description>Global Healthcare &#38; Vision Restoration</description>
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		<title>Sweet Support from Carvel Hicksville, Thank you Jenny and Fred Yam.</title>
		<link>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/11/sweet-support-from-carvel-hicksville-thank-you-jenny-and-fred-yam/</link>
		<comments>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/11/sweet-support-from-carvel-hicksville-thank-you-jenny-and-fred-yam/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 19 Nov 2025 15:21:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sights on Health</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fundraiser]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://sightsonhealth.org/?p=5735</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Sights on Health is proud to honor Jenny and Fred Yam of Carvel Hicksville (182 W. Old Country Rd., Hicksville, NY) for their outstanding generosity and community spirit. Since August, their $6-for-Flying-Saucers campaign (with the treat retailing at $12.99) has raised $600, funding the purchase of 500 pairs of reading glasses for our March 2026 medical mission to Peru. These glasses will help patients read, work, and navigate daily life with greater ease. We extend special thanks to Nicholas Chin for organizing and sustaining this effort. To Jenny, Fred, Nicholas, and every customer who donated—thank you for turning ice cream into sight-saving support.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p data-start="49" data-end="225">Sights on Health is proud to honor <strong data-start="84" data-end="168">Jenny and Fred Yam of Carvel Hicksville (182 W. Old Country Rd., Hicksville, NY)</strong> for their outstanding generosity and community spirit.</p>
<p data-start="227" data-end="538">Since August, their <strong data-start="247" data-end="272">$6-for-Flying-Saucers</strong> campaign (with the treat retailing at <strong data-start="311" data-end="321">$12.99</strong>) has raised <strong data-start="334" data-end="342">$600</strong>, funding the purchase of <strong data-start="368" data-end="400">500 pairs of reading glasses</strong> for our <strong data-start="409" data-end="447">March 2026 medical mission to Peru</strong>. These glasses will help patients read, work, and navigate daily life with greater ease.</p>
<p data-start="540" data-end="744" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">We extend <strong data-start="550" data-end="585">special thanks to Nicholas Chin</strong> for organizing and sustaining this effort. To Jenny, Fred, Nicholas, and every customer who donated—thank you for turning ice cream into sight-saving support.</p>
<p data-start="540" data-end="744" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node=""><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/soh-certificate-carvel-copy.jpg"><br />
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<p data-start="540" data-end="744" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node=""><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/soh-certificate-carvel.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5744" title="soh-certificate - carvel" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/soh-certificate-carvel.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="495" /></a><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/soh-certificate-carvel1.jpg"><br />
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		<title>More ways to support! We’ve joined Venmo.</title>
		<link>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/11/more-ways-to-support-we%e2%80%99ve-joined-venmo/</link>
		<comments>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/11/more-ways-to-support-we%e2%80%99ve-joined-venmo/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 12 Nov 2025 15:44:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sights on Health</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fundraiser]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://sightsonhealth.org/?p=5722</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Please consider contributing to our Cataract &#38; Medical Mission to Peru (March 21–28, 2026). Your help restores vision and funds critical healthcare services. Venmo @sightsonhealth501c3 &#160;]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/venmo-header.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5727" title="venmo header" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/venmo-header.jpg" alt="" width="2792" height="1256" /></a>Please consider contributing to our Cataract &amp; Medical Mission to Peru (March 21–28, 2026).</p>
<p>Your help restores vision and funds critical healthcare services.</p>
<p><strong>Venmo <a href="https://account.venmo.com/u/sightsonhealth501c3" target="_blank">@sightsonhealth501c3</a></strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<div><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-1.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5693" title="soh 1" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-1.png" alt="" width="640" height="736" /></a></div>
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		<title>Voices of Ecuador: Patient Interviews, Stories, and Care</title>
		<link>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/10/voices-of-ecuador-patient-interviews-stories-and-care/</link>
		<comments>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/10/voices-of-ecuador-patient-interviews-stories-and-care/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 27 Oct 2025 18:07:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sights on Health</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cataract Mission]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ecuador]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://sightsonhealth.org/?p=5703</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[By Gina Fernandez International &#38; Education Programs Coordinator, SEE International seeintl.org Patient Interview Summary – Fanny (49) &#38; Ana Lucia &#8220;Anita&#8221; (64) Surgical Date: 5/20/25 Procedure: Left Eye Cataract Surgery (second eye for both patients) Interview Type: Video and in-person interview (partial transcription)  (Left) Fanny &#8211; 49 yo and (Right) Ana Lucia (Anita) &#8211; 64 yo  Fanny and Anita were among the final patients of a long surgical day, both having waited since 6:00 AM for their turn. Coincidentally, both women were there for surgery on their left eye and were the last two patients taken into the operating room around 6:30 PM. Though strangers before, they discovered they live on the same street, just on opposite ends of town, and shared nearly identical visual challenges. During the interviews, there was a quiet, powerful moment. The sun had begun to set, casting a golden glow over Chimborazo Volcano—a view visible from a small window in the dining area on the top floor. A team member captured the scene and shared it in our WhatsApp group chat, prompting a steady stream of surgical volunteers to make their way upstairs to witness the breathtaking sight for themselves. When I explained to Fanny [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>By Gina Fernandez</strong><br />
<em>International &amp; Education Programs Coordinator, SEE International<br />
<a href="https://www.seeintl.org/team/gina-fernandez/">seeintl.org</a></em></p>
<p><strong>Patient Interview Summary – Fanny (49) &amp; Ana Lucia &#8220;Anita&#8221; (64)<br />
</strong>Surgical Date: 5/20/25<br />
Procedure: Left Eye Cataract Surgery (second eye for both patients)<br />
Interview Type: Video and in-person interview (partial transcription)</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Image-1.png"><img title="Image 1" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Image-1.png" alt="" width="808" height="804" /></a></p>
<p><em> (Left) Fanny &#8211; 49 yo and (Right) Ana Lucia (Anita) &#8211; 64 yo </em></p>
<p>Fanny and Anita were among the final patients of a long surgical day, both having waited since 6:00 AM for their turn. Coincidentally, both women were there for surgery on their left eye and were the last two patients taken into the operating room around 6:30 PM. Though strangers before, they discovered they live on the same street, just on opposite ends of town, and shared nearly identical visual challenges.</p>
<p>During the interviews, there was a quiet, powerful moment. The sun had begun to set, casting a golden glow over Chimborazo Volcano—a view visible from a small window in the dining area on the top floor. A team member captured the scene and shared it in our WhatsApp group chat, prompting a steady stream of surgical volunteers to make their way upstairs to witness the breathtaking sight for themselves.</p>
<p>When I explained to Fanny why so many were rushing up the stairs, she closed her eyes and began to describe the volcano in vivid detail, without having seen it.</p>
<p>“I can see it now,” she said, “how the sun is hitting from the top, the clouds overcast but not covering the volcano, and the glimmering of the rays against the snow on the mountainside. It is one of the most beautiful sights to see.”</p>
<p>I was stunned into silence. Just twenty minutes earlier, I had been up there myself, taking photos of that very view—watching the sun fall behind the mountain, the Riobamba neighborhood spread below. And now, here was Fanny, unable to see it physically yet painting it perfectly from memory. I found myself holding back tears.</p>
<p><strong>Q: What will you do once your vision is fully restored?<br />
</strong>Fanny shared that she longs to return to the countryside on weekends, something she had stopped doing. She described it as a place of peace and renewal; a quiet escape filled only with the sounds of wind, trees, birds, and distant neighbors. Regaining her sight means being able to fully enjoy that space again.</p>
<p>When asked if she would return to dancing, she laughed and confirmed that she never really stopped, but now she looks forward to dancing while being able to see both her own movements and those of others.</p>
<p>She also expressed her desire to see the volcano Tungurahua again, as she was born in a community in that region.</p>
<p>Anita echoed these sentiments, saying she dreams of returning to her home in La Alegría, to be with her animals and harvest her herbs; the things that once brought her joy. However, due to her vision loss, she had to leave that life behind after repeated accidents, including cutting her hands. With her sight restored, she hopes to return, but this time, with care and confidence.</p>
<p>Both women reflected on how their partial vision had made depth perception difficult. Fanny explained how even with sharp vision in her right eye, she struggled to judge distances, sometimes thinking she was about to reach the ground when she was still far off. She mentioned that she often relied on memory to navigate familiar roads.  Anita `nodded in agreement, saying she experienced the same disconnect between what she saw and what her brain processed.</p>
<p>They both laughed and marveled at how similar their experiences were. Fanny jokingly said, “You see! Coincidence? It’s not a coincidence!”</p>
<p>Despite those challenges, both expressed gratitude for their restored vision and the freedom it gives them. Fanny described how she cried when she first began seeing clearly with her right eye, it was overwhelming to see so sharply after so long.</p>
<p>These two women, by chance, discovered they live on the same street, just on opposite ends of town. Both shared that they only dared to walk short distances, to and from work or church, because they had fallen too many times before. Even with sharp vision in their right eye, it hadn’t been enough to feel safe.</p>
<p>Now, after receiving successful surgeries on their left eye, their vision has been fully restored.</p>
<p>I can imagine them now, meeting halfway between their homes, joyfully walking side by side. No longer burdened by the fear of falling. No longer relying on family or friends to guide them. Their independence has returned with their sight.</p>
<p>As Fanny described the towering Chimborazo volcano, I pictured her, after all the post-op visits, taking in the golden sunset as it spills across the snow-capped peak. Both women will once again be able to tend to the land they were raised on, reconnecting with their surroundings; not just through memory, but through all five senses. Fully present. Fully restored.</p>
<p>Both women experienced joy and validation in realizing they were not alone in their struggles.</p>
<p>Their restored vision means a return to independence, confidence, and a reconnection to their roots, whether tending land, seeing their surroundings clearly, or simply walking safely again.</p>
<p>This heartfelt and revealing interview highlights not just the impact of restored sight, but the shared human experience that unfolds during these surgical programs. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of how access to care transforms lives; physically, emotionally, and socially.</p>
<p>&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;-</p>
<p><strong>Patient Stories: William (8) and Jesús (14), Two Young Cousins</strong></p>
<p>Jesús, 14, and William, 8, had been born with poor vision and severe nystagmus (rapid, involuntary eye movement). Both struggled every day to navigate life with minimal sight. For William, the situation was especially dire: one eye was completely blind, and the other had extremely poor vision. Jesús could see only the largest letters on the chart with one eye, while the other provided no functional vision.</p>
<p>Months before the mission, a local ophthalmologist reached out to Dr. Michael Sable, describing the boys’ cases and asking the question every surgeon weighs carefully: <em>Could anything be done? </em></p>
<p>“I knew these surgeries carried huge risks,” Dr. Sable recalls. “Both boys had only one functional eye left. If something went wrong, they could be completely blind.”</p>
<p>When the team examined the cousins under anesthesia; the only way to properly assess their eyes. Dr. Sable found Jesús’s situation particularly unusual: the lens in his poor eye had completely resorbed, leaving behind a dense, scarred capsule. William’s only good eye had a severely damaged lens, but the anatomy offered a more straightforward path for surgery.</p>
<p>With careful planning and support from the mission team, Dr. Sable decided to move forward, operating on each boy’s better eye.</p>
<p>“We performed a delicate procedure to remove the scarred tissue and implant an intraocular lens,” he explains. “It was all or nothing.”</p>
<p>The results were nothing short of life-changing.</p>
<p>“Jesús went from seeing only the big ‘E’ to reading the 20/50 line on the eye chart. William, who had been living in shadows, could suddenly recognize letters,” Dr. Sable shares. “In ten years of doing missions, these two kids are at the top of my list.”</p>
<p>For William and Jesús, the gift of sight means more than clear vision — it means a chance to return to school, to play, to dream. For their families, it’s the lifting of a lifelong burden and the promise of a brighter future.</p>
<p>As Dr. Sable reflects:</p>
<p>“It’s not just restoring vision. It’s restoring dignity, independence, and opportunity — for a child, for a family, for a community.”</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-2.png"><img title="image 2" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-2.png" alt="" width="640" height="854" /></a></p>
<p><em>Dr. Sable Lead doctor for the program and doctor that preformed Jesus and William’s cases in addition to Anita’s left eye. </em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3.png"><img title="image 3" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3.png" alt="" width="640" height="723" /></a><em>Dr. Jose Davila, a young ophthalmologist from Boston on his first program. Preformed Fanny’s left eye in addition to 34 other cataract cases. </em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-4.png"><img title="image 4" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-4.png" alt="" width="640" height="597" /></a><em>Pictured left to right: Dr. Jose Davila (Surgeon) Dr. Joe Ing (Anesthesiologist) Dr. Michael Sable (Lead Surgeon), Dr. Debra Messina (President for Sights on Health and Long time SEE Partner) </em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-5.png"><img title="image 5" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-5.png" alt="" width="640" height="771" /></a><em>Pictured: Dr. Sable and Dr. Krebs taking a little break from the long day&#8217;s work. </em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-6.png"><img title="image 6" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-6.png" alt="" width="640" height="754" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-7.png"><img title="image 7" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-7.png" alt="" width="640" height="688" /></a><em>Jesus, 14, being examined Post-operatively by Host Dr. Carlos Gonzalez and Traveling Surgeon/Retina Specialist, Dr. Jose Davila.<br />
</em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-8.jpg"><img title="image 8" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-8.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="688" /></a></p>
<p><em>Pictured: Jesus&#8217;s father, Jesus&#8217;s Aunt, Dr. Juan Morales (anesthesiologist) and Melissa Monaghan, RN. After Jesus&#8217;s surgery.</em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-9.png"><img title="image 9" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-9.png" alt="" width="640" height="422" /></a><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-10.png"><img title="image 10" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-10.png" alt="" width="640" height="649" /></a><em> </em><em>William and his mother at the intake, both unsure if he will have surgery on this day, but hopeful. </em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-1.png"><img title="soh 1" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-1.png" alt="" width="640" height="736" /></a></p>
<p><em>Pictured: Ambar Ruiz, a medical student, assisting with pre- and post-operative care, alongside Jesus, who returned for his follow-up visit. Jesus stayed throughout the day, observing patients as they moved in and out of the surgical room. He was also there to support his aunt and cousin while they waited for William’s turn to be examined; and ultimately operated on. </em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-2.png"><img title="soh 2" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-2.png" alt="" width="640" height="736" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/see-and-sights-on-health.png"><img title="see and sights on health" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/see-and-sights-on-health.png" alt="" width="640" height="775" /></a></p>
<p><em>Dr. Sable with one of the Host Ophthalmologists, training on his technique on first incision. </em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-3.png"><img title="soh 3" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-3.png" alt="" width="640" height="773" /></a></p>
<p><em>Dr. Jose Davila training Dr. Carlos Gonzalez on the Phaco Machine and its settings. The host site purchased the new machine for their cases. </em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Patients-waiting-for-their-post-op-checkups-after-eye-patch-removal..png"><img title="Patients waiting for their post op checkups after eye patch removal." src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Patients-waiting-for-their-post-op-checkups-after-eye-patch-removal..png" alt="" width="640" height="762" /></a></p>
<p><em>Patients waiting for their post op checkups after eye patch removal. </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>By Gina Fernandez</strong><br />
<em>International &amp; Education Programs Coordinator, SEE International<br />
<a href="https://www.seeintl.org/team/gina-fernandez/">seeintl.org</a></em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Patient Interview Summary – Fanny (49) &amp; Ana Lucia &#8220;Anita&#8221; (64)<br />
</strong>Surgical Date: 5/20/25<br />
Procedure: Left Eye Cataract Surgery (second eye for both patients)<br />
Interview Type: Video and in-person interview (partial transcription)</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Image-1.png"><img title="Image 1" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Image-1.png" alt="" width="808" height="804" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em> (Left) Fanny &#8211; 49 yo and (Right) Ana Lucia (Anita) &#8211; 64 yo </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Fanny and Anita were among the final patients of a long surgical day, both having waited since 6:00 AM for their turn. Coincidentally, both women were there for surgery on their left eye and were the last two patients taken into the operating room around 6:30 PM. Though strangers before, they discovered they live on the same street, just on opposite ends of town, and shared nearly identical visual challenges.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>During the interviews, there was a quiet, powerful moment. The sun had begun to set, casting a golden glow over Chimborazo Volcano—a view visible from a small window in the dining area on the top floor. A team member captured the scene and shared it in our WhatsApp group chat, prompting a steady stream of surgical volunteers to make their way upstairs to witness the breathtaking sight for themselves.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>When I explained to Fanny why so many were rushing up the stairs, she closed her eyes and began to describe the volcano in vivid detail, without having seen it.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>“I can see it now,” she said, “how the sun is hitting from the top, the clouds overcast but not covering the volcano, and the glimmering of the rays against the snow on the mountainside. It is one of the most beautiful sights to see.”</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>I was stunned into silence. Just twenty minutes earlier, I had been up there myself, taking photos of that very view—watching the sun fall behind the mountain, the Riobamba neighborhood spread below. And now, here was Fanny, unable to see it physically yet painting it perfectly from memory. I found myself holding back tears.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Q: What will you do once your vision is fully restored?<br />
</strong>Fanny shared that she longs to return to the countryside on weekends, something she had stopped doing. She described it as a place of peace and renewal; a quiet escape filled only with the sounds of wind, trees, birds, and distant neighbors. Regaining her sight means being able to fully enjoy that space again.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>When asked if she would return to dancing, she laughed and confirmed that she never really stopped, but now she looks forward to dancing while being able to see both her own movements and those of others.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>She also expressed her desire to see the volcano Tungurahua again, as she was born in a community in that region.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Anita echoed these sentiments, saying she dreams of returning to her home in La Alegría, to be with her animals and harvest her herbs; the things that once brought her joy. However, due to her vision loss, she had to leave that life behind after repeated accidents, including cutting her hands. With her sight restored, she hopes to return, but this time, with care and confidence.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Both women reflected on how their partial vision had made depth perception difficult. Fanny explained how even with sharp vision in her right eye, she struggled to judge distances, sometimes thinking she was about to reach the ground when she was still far off. She mentioned that she often relied on memory to navigate familiar roads.  Anita `nodded in agreement, saying she experienced the same disconnect between what she saw and what her brain processed.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>They both laughed and marveled at how similar their experiences were. Fanny jokingly said, “You see! Coincidence? It’s not a coincidence!”</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Despite those challenges, both expressed gratitude for their restored vision and the freedom it gives them. Fanny described how she cried when she first began seeing clearly with her right eye, it was overwhelming to see so sharply after so long.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>These two women, by chance, discovered they live on the same street, just on opposite ends of town. Both shared that they only dared to walk short distances, to and from work or church, because they had fallen too many times before. Even with sharp vision in their right eye, it hadn’t been enough to feel safe.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Now, after receiving successful surgeries on their left eye, their vision has been fully restored.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>I can imagine them now, meeting halfway between their homes, joyfully walking side by side. No longer burdened by the fear of falling. No longer relying on family or friends to guide them. Their independence has returned with their sight.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>As Fanny described the towering Chimborazo volcano, I pictured her, after all the post-op visits, taking in the golden sunset as it spills across the snow-capped peak. Both women will once again be able to tend to the land they were raised on, reconnecting with their surroundings; not just through memory, but through all five senses. Fully present. Fully restored.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Both women experienced joy and validation in realizing they were not alone in their struggles.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Their restored vision means a return to independence, confidence, and a reconnection to their roots, whether tending land, seeing their surroundings clearly, or simply walking safely again.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>This heartfelt and revealing interview highlights not just the impact of restored sight, but the shared human experience that unfolds during these surgical programs. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of how access to care transforms lives; physically, emotionally, and socially.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;-</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Patient Stories: William (8) and Jesús (14), Two Young Cousins</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Jesús, 14, and William, 8, had been born with poor vision and severe nystagmus (rapid, involuntary eye movement). Both struggled every day to navigate life with minimal sight. For William, the situation was especially dire: one eye was completely blind, and the other had extremely poor vision. Jesús could see only the largest letters on the chart with one eye, while the other provided no functional vision.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Months before the mission, a local ophthalmologist reached out to Dr. Michael Sable, describing the boys’ cases and asking the question every surgeon weighs carefully: <em>Could anything be done? </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>“I knew these surgeries carried huge risks,” Dr. Sable recalls. “Both boys had only one functional eye left. If something went wrong, they could be completely blind.”</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>When the team examined the cousins under anesthesia; the only way to properly assess their eyes. Dr. Sable found Jesús’s situation particularly unusual: the lens in his poor eye had completely resorbed, leaving behind a dense, scarred capsule. William’s only good eye had a severely damaged lens, but the anatomy offered a more straightforward path for surgery.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>With careful planning and support from the mission team, Dr. Sable decided to move forward, operating on each boy’s better eye.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>“We performed a delicate procedure to remove the scarred tissue and implant an intraocular lens,” he explains. “It was all or nothing.”</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The results were nothing short of life-changing.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>“Jesús went from seeing only the big ‘E’ to reading the 20/50 line on the eye chart. William, who had been living in shadows, could suddenly recognize letters,” Dr. Sable shares. “In ten years of doing missions, these two kids are at the top of my list.”</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>For William and Jesús, the gift of sight means more than clear vision — it means a chance to return to school, to play, to dream. For their families, it’s the lifting of a lifelong burden and the promise of a brighter future.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>As Dr. Sable reflects:</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>“It’s not just restoring vision. It’s restoring dignity, independence, and opportunity — for a child, for a family, for a community.”</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-2.png"><img title="image 2" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-2.png" alt="" width="640" height="854" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Dr. Sable Lead doctor for the program and doctor that preformed Jesus and William’s cases in addition to Anita’s left eye. </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3.png"><img title="image 3" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3.png" alt="" width="640" height="723" /></a><em>Dr. Jose Davila, a young ophthalmologist from Boston on his first program. Preformed Fanny’s left eye in addition to 34 other cataract cases. </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-4.png"><img title="image 4" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-4.png" alt="" width="640" height="597" /></a><em>Pictured left to right: Dr. Jose Davila (Surgeon) Dr. Joe Ing (Anesthesiologist) Dr. Michael Sable (Lead Surgeon), Dr. Debra Messina (President for Sights on Health and Long time SEE Partner) </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-5.png"><img title="image 5" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-5.png" alt="" width="640" height="771" /></a><em>Pictured: Dr. Sable and Dr. Krebs taking a little break from the long day&#8217;s work. </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-6.png"><img title="image 6" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-6.png" alt="" width="640" height="754" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-7.png"><img title="image 7" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-7.png" alt="" width="640" height="688" /></a><em>Jesus, 14, being examined Post-operatively by Host Dr. Carlos Gonzalez and Traveling Surgeon/Retina Specialist, Dr. Jose Davila.<br />
</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-8.jpg"><img title="image 8" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-8.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="688" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Pictured: Jesus&#8217;s father, Jesus&#8217;s Aunt, Dr. Juan Morales (anesthesiologist) and Melissa Monaghan, RN. After Jesus&#8217;s surgery.</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-9.png"><img title="image 9" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-9.png" alt="" width="640" height="422" /></a><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-10.png"><img title="image 10" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-10.png" alt="" width="640" height="649" /></a><em> </em><em>William and his mother at the intake, both unsure if he will have surgery on this day, but hopeful. </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-1.png"><img title="soh 1" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-1.png" alt="" width="640" height="736" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Pictured: Ambar Ruiz, a medical student, assisting with pre- and post-operative care, alongside Jesus, who returned for his follow-up visit. Jesus stayed throughout the day, observing patients as they moved in and out of the surgical room. He was also there to support his aunt and cousin while they waited for William’s turn to be examined; and ultimately operated on. </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-2.png"><img title="soh 2" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-2.png" alt="" width="640" height="736" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/see-and-sights-on-health.png"><img title="see and sights on health" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/see-and-sights-on-health.png" alt="" width="640" height="775" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Dr. Sable with one of the Host Ophthalmologists, training on his technique on first incision. </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-3.png"><img title="soh 3" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-3.png" alt="" width="640" height="773" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Dr. Jose Davila training Dr. Carlos Gonzalez on the Phaco Machine and its settings. The host site purchased the new machine for their cases. </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Patients-waiting-for-their-post-op-checkups-after-eye-patch-removal..png"><img title="Patients waiting for their post op checkups after eye patch removal." src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Patients-waiting-for-their-post-op-checkups-after-eye-patch-removal..png" alt="" width="640" height="762" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Patients waiting for their post op checkups after eye patch removal. </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3.png"><br />
</a><em></em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Voices of Ecuador: Patient Interviews, Stories, and Care</title>
		<link>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/10/ecuador-patient-interviews/</link>
		<comments>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/10/ecuador-patient-interviews/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 23 Oct 2025 17:24:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sights on Health</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ecuador]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://sightsonhealth.org/?p=5666</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[By Gina Fernandez International &#38; Education Programs Coordinator, SEE International seeintl.org Patient Interview Summary – Fanny (49) &#38; Ana Lucia &#8220;Anita&#8221; (64) Surgical Date: 5/20/25 Procedure: Left Eye Cataract Surgery (second eye for both patients) Interview Type: Video and in-person interview (partial transcription)  (Left) Fanny &#8211; 49 yo and (Right) Ana Lucia (Anita) &#8211; 64 yo  Fanny and Anita were among the final patients of a long surgical day, both having waited since 6:00 AM for their turn. Coincidentally, both women were there for surgery on their left eye and were the last two patients taken into the operating room around 6:30 PM. Though strangers before, they discovered they live on the same street, just on opposite ends of town, and shared nearly identical visual challenges. During the interviews, there was a quiet, powerful moment. The sun had begun to set, casting a golden glow over Chimborazo Volcano—a view visible from a small window in the dining area on the top floor. A team member captured the scene and shared it in our WhatsApp group chat, prompting a steady stream of surgical volunteers to make their way upstairs to witness the breathtaking sight for themselves. When I explained to Fanny [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>By Gina Fernandez</strong><br />
<em>International &amp; Education Programs Coordinator, SEE International<br />
<a href="https://www.seeintl.org/team/gina-fernandez/">seeintl.org</a></em></p>
<p><span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong>Patient Interview Summary – Fanny (49) &amp; Ana Lucia &#8220;Anita&#8221; (64)<br />
</strong></span>Surgical Date: 5/20/25<br />
Procedure: Left Eye Cataract Surgery (second eye for both patients)<br />
Interview Type: Video and in-person interview (partial transcription)</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Image-1.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5667" title="Image 1" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Image-1.png" alt="" width="808" height="804" /></a></p>
<p><em><span style="color: #808080;"> (Left) Fanny &#8211; 49 yo and (Right) Ana Lucia (Anita) &#8211; 64 yo </span></em></p>
<p>Fanny and Anita were among the final patients of a long surgical day, both having waited since 6:00 AM for their turn. Coincidentally, both women were there for surgery on their left eye and were the last two patients taken into the operating room around 6:30 PM. Though strangers before, they discovered they live on the same street, just on opposite ends of town, and shared nearly identical visual challenges.</p>
<p>During the interviews, there was a quiet, powerful moment. The sun had begun to set, casting a golden glow over Chimborazo Volcano—a view visible from a small window in the dining area on the top floor. A team member captured the scene and shared it in our WhatsApp group chat, prompting a steady stream of surgical volunteers to make their way upstairs to witness the breathtaking sight for themselves.</p>
<p>When I explained to Fanny why so many were rushing up the stairs, she closed her eyes and began to describe the volcano in vivid detail, without having seen it.</p>
<p>“I can see it now,” she said, “how the sun is hitting from the top, the clouds overcast but not covering the volcano, and the glimmering of the rays against the snow on the mountainside. It is one of the most beautiful sights to see.”</p>
<p>I was stunned into silence. Just twenty minutes earlier, I had been up there myself, taking photos of that very view—watching the sun fall behind the mountain, the Riobamba neighborhood spread below. And now, here was Fanny, unable to see it physically yet painting it perfectly from memory. I found myself holding back tears.</p>
<p><strong>Q: What will you do once your vision is fully restored?<br />
</strong>Fanny shared that she longs to return to the countryside on weekends, something she had stopped doing. She described it as a place of peace and renewal; a quiet escape filled only with the sounds of wind, trees, birds, and distant neighbors. Regaining her sight means being able to fully enjoy that space again.</p>
<p>When asked if she would return to dancing, she laughed and confirmed that she never really stopped, but now she looks forward to dancing while being able to see both her own movements and those of others.</p>
<p>She also expressed her desire to see the volcano Tungurahua again, as she was born in a community in that region.</p>
<p>Anita echoed these sentiments, saying she dreams of returning to her home in La Alegría, to be with her animals and harvest her herbs; the things that once brought her joy. However, due to her vision loss, she had to leave that life behind after repeated accidents, including cutting her hands. With her sight restored, she hopes to return, but this time, with care and confidence.</p>
<p>Both women reflected on how their partial vision had made depth perception difficult. Fanny explained how even with sharp vision in her right eye, she struggled to judge distances, sometimes thinking she was about to reach the ground when she was still far off. She mentioned that she often relied on memory to navigate familiar roads.  Anita `nodded in agreement, saying she experienced the same disconnect between what she saw and what her brain processed.</p>
<p>They both laughed and marveled at how similar their experiences were. Fanny jokingly said, “You see! Coincidence? It’s not a coincidence!”</p>
<p>Despite those challenges, both expressed gratitude for their restored vision and the freedom it gives them. Fanny described how she cried when she first began seeing clearly with her right eye, it was overwhelming to see so sharply after so long.</p>
<p>These two women, by chance, discovered they live on the same street, just on opposite ends of town. Both shared that they only dared to walk short distances, to and from work or church, because they had fallen too many times before. Even with sharp vision in their right eye, it hadn’t been enough to feel safe.</p>
<p>Now, after receiving successful surgeries on their left eye, their vision has been fully restored.</p>
<p>I can imagine them now, meeting halfway between their homes, joyfully walking side by side. No longer burdened by the fear of falling. No longer relying on family or friends to guide them. Their independence has returned with their sight.</p>
<p>As Fanny described the towering Chimborazo volcano, I pictured her, after all the post-op visits, taking in the golden sunset as it spills across the snow-capped peak. Both women will once again be able to tend to the land they were raised on, reconnecting with their surroundings; not just through memory, but through all five senses. Fully present. Fully restored.</p>
<p>Both women experienced joy and validation in realizing they were not alone in their struggles.</p>
<p>Their restored vision means a return to independence, confidence, and a reconnection to their roots, whether tending land, seeing their surroundings clearly, or simply walking safely again.</p>
<p>This heartfelt and revealing interview highlights not just the impact of restored sight, but the shared human experience that unfolds during these surgical programs. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of how access to care transforms lives; physically, emotionally, and socially.</p>
<p>&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;-</p>
<p><span style="color: #ff6600;"><strong>Patient Stories: William (8) and Jesús (14), Two Young Cousins</strong></span></p>
<p>Jesús, 14, and William, 8, had been born with poor vision and severe nystagmus (rapid, involuntary eye movement). Both struggled every day to navigate life with minimal sight. For William, the situation was especially dire: one eye was completely blind, and the other had extremely poor vision. Jesús could see only the largest letters on the chart with one eye, while the other provided no functional vision.</p>
<p>Months before the mission, a local ophthalmologist reached out to Dr. Michael Sable, describing the boys’ cases and asking the question every surgeon weighs carefully: <em>Could anything be done? </em></p>
<p>“I knew these surgeries carried huge risks,” Dr. Sable recalls. “Both boys had only one functional eye left. If something went wrong, they could be completely blind.”</p>
<p>When the team examined the cousins under anesthesia; the only way to properly assess their eyes. Dr. Sable found Jesús’s situation particularly unusual: the lens in his poor eye had completely resorbed, leaving behind a dense, scarred capsule. William’s only good eye had a severely damaged lens, but the anatomy offered a more straightforward path for surgery.</p>
<p>With careful planning and support from the mission team, Dr. Sable decided to move forward, operating on each boy’s better eye.</p>
<p>“We performed a delicate procedure to remove the scarred tissue and implant an intraocular lens,” he explains. “It was all or nothing.”</p>
<p>The results were nothing short of life-changing.</p>
<p>“Jesús went from seeing only the big ‘E’ to reading the 20/50 line on the eye chart. William, who had been living in shadows, could suddenly recognize letters,” Dr. Sable shares. “In ten years of doing missions, these two kids are at the top of my list.”</p>
<p>For William and Jesús, the gift of sight means more than clear vision — it means a chance to return to school, to play, to dream. For their families, it’s the lifting of a lifelong burden and the promise of a brighter future.</p>
<p>As Dr. Sable reflects:</p>
<p>“It’s not just restoring vision. It’s restoring dignity, independence, and opportunity — for a child, for a family, for a community.”</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-2.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5675" title="image 2" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-2.png" alt="" width="640" height="854" /></a></p>
<p><em><span style="color: #888888;">Dr. Sable Lead doctor for the program and doctor that preformed Jesus and William’s cases in addition to Anita’s left eye. </span></em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5677" title="image 3" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3.png" alt="" width="640" height="723" /></a><em><span style="color: #888888;">Dr. Jose Davila, a young ophthalmologist from Boston on his first program. Preformed Fanny’s left eye in addition to 34 other cataract cases. </span></em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-4.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5679" title="image 4" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-4.png" alt="" width="640" height="597" /></a><em style="color: #888888;">Pictured left to right: Dr. Jose Davila (Surgeon) Dr. Joe Ing (Anesthesiologist) Dr. Michael Sable (Lead Surgeon), Dr. Debra Messina (President for Sights on Health and Long time SEE Partner) </em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-5.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5681" title="image 5" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-5.png" alt="" width="640" height="771" /></a><em><span style="color: #888888;">Pictured: Dr. Sable and Dr. Krebs taking a little break from the long day&#8217;s work. </span></em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-6.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5687" title="image 6" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-6.png" alt="" width="640" height="754" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-7.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5688" title="image 7" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-7.png" alt="" width="640" height="688" /></a><em><span style="color: #888888;"><em>Jesus, 14, being examined Post-operatively by Host Dr. Carlos Gonzalez and Traveling Surgeon/Retina Specialist, Dr. Jose Davila.<br />
</em></span></em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-8.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5689" title="image 8" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-8.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="688" /></a></p>
<p><em><span style="color: #888888;">Pictured: Jesus&#8217;s father, Jesus&#8217;s Aunt, Dr. Juan Morales (anesthesiologist) and Melissa Monaghan, RN. After Jesus&#8217;s surgery.</span></em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-9.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5690" title="image 9" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-9.png" alt="" width="640" height="422" /></a><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-10.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5691" title="image 10" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-10.png" alt="" width="640" height="649" /></a><em><span style="color: #888888;"> </span></em><em><span style="color: #888888;">William and his mother at the intake, both unsure if he will have surgery on this day, but hopeful. </span></em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-1.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5693" title="soh 1" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-1.png" alt="" width="640" height="736" /></a></p>
<p><em><span style="color: #888888;">Pictured: Ambar Ruiz, a medical student, assisting with pre- and post-operative care, alongside Jesus, who returned for his follow-up visit. Jesus stayed throughout the day, observing patients as they moved in and out of the surgical room. He was also there to support his aunt and cousin while they waited for William’s turn to be examined; and ultimately operated on. </span></em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-2.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5694" title="soh 2" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-2.png" alt="" width="640" height="736" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/see-and-sights-on-health.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5695" title="see and sights on health" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/see-and-sights-on-health.png" alt="" width="640" height="775" /></a></p>
<p><em><span style="color: #888888;">Dr. Sable with one of the Host Ophthalmologists, training on his technique on first incision. </span></em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-3.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5696" title="soh 3" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/soh-3.png" alt="" width="640" height="773" /></a></p>
<p><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Dr. Jose Davila training Dr. Carlos Gonzalez on the Phaco Machine and its settings. The host site purchased the new machine for their cases. </em></span></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Patients-waiting-for-their-post-op-checkups-after-eye-patch-removal..png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5697" title="Patients waiting for their post op checkups after eye patch removal." src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Patients-waiting-for-their-post-op-checkups-after-eye-patch-removal..png" alt="" width="640" height="762" /></a></p>
<p><em><span style="color: #808080;">Patients waiting for their post op checkups after eye patch removal. </span></em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/image-3.png"><br />
</a><em></em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Cataract &amp; Medical Mission: Peru 2026 — Be Part of the Team</title>
		<link>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/10/would-you-like-to-join-our-team-peru-mission-2026/</link>
		<comments>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/10/would-you-like-to-join-our-team-peru-mission-2026/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Oct 2025 16:11:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sights on Health</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2026]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cataract]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Medical]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Peru]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://sightsonhealth.org/?p=5600</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[We are preparing for our Cataract Surgical and Medical Mission 2026 to Peru. Would you like to join our team? March 21-28, 2026 Volunteers needed: Medicine team: they will travel to communities for 4 to 5 days 3-4 MDS of various specialties 1-2RNs 1 pharmacist 1 medical resident &#38;amp; 1 medical student 1 administrative assistant 1-2 translators Surgical Eye Team:patients will be evaluated in eye clinic and will be selected for surgery 2-3 ophthalmic surgeons 4-5 RNs or CSTs for OR with ophthalmic experience 1 ophthalmology resident 1 anesthesiologists or critical care physician 1 preop/postop RN 1 sterilization tech 1 medical student 1 administrative assistant 1-2 translators There will be an opportunity to visit Machu Picchu after the mission is completed. There will be a travel agent who can guide you through the process. Otherwise, you can return with the main group on March 28th. If you are interested in joining the Sights on Health team, please email Dr. Debra Messina here, for an application no later than 11/3/2025. Thank you!]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong style="color: #ff6600;">We are preparing for our Cataract Surgical and Medical Mission 2026 to Peru. Would you like to join our team? </strong><strong style="color: #ff6600;">March 21-28, 2026</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/WhatsApp-Image-2024-05-26-at-09.21.28_46c2ee4d1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5615" title="WhatsApp-Image-2024-05-26-at-09.21.28_46c2ee4d" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/WhatsApp-Image-2024-05-26-at-09.21.28_46c2ee4d1.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="643" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Volunteers needed:</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong>Medicine team: they will travel to communities for 4 to 5 days</p>
<ul>
<li>3-4 MDS of various specialties</li>
<li>1-2RNs</li>
<li>1 pharmacist</li>
<li>1 medical resident &amp;amp; 1 medical student</li>
<li>1 administrative assistant</li>
<li>1-2 translators</li>
</ul>
<p>Surgical Eye Team:patients will be evaluated in eye clinic and will be selected for surgery</p>
<ul>
<li>2-3 ophthalmic surgeons</li>
<li>4-5 RNs or CSTs for OR with ophthalmic experience</li>
<li>1 ophthalmology resident</li>
<li>1 anesthesiologists or critical care physician</li>
<li>1 preop/postop RN</li>
<li>1 sterilization tech</li>
<li>1 medical student</li>
<li>1 administrative assistant</li>
<li>1-2 translators</li>
</ul>
<p>There will be an opportunity to visit Machu Picchu after the mission is completed. There will be a travel agent who can guide you through the process. Otherwise, you can return with the main group on March 28th. If you are interested in joining the Sights on Health team, please <a href="mailto:sightsonhealth@gmail.com" target="_blank">email</a> Dr. Debra Messina <a href="mailto:sightsonhealth@gmail.com" target="_blank">here, </a>for an application no later than 11/3/2025. Thank you!</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/sights-on-health.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5605" title="sights-on-health" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/sights-on-health.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="428" /></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Wish List for Medical &amp; Cataract Surgical Mission to Peru March 2026</title>
		<link>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/10/wish-list-fmission-to-ecuador-2025/</link>
		<comments>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/10/wish-list-fmission-to-ecuador-2025/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 12 Oct 2025 15:38:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sights on Health</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cataract Mission]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ecuador]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Medical Mission]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[2015]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cataract]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fundraiser]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Giving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Medical]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://sightsonhealth.org/?p=5300</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Below are supplies our team will need in order to examine &#38; treat patients… perhaps you would like to purchase an item as a holiday gift for a loved one! Below print your gift receipt.  There are all price ranges to fit everyone’s wallet… Sights On Health is a nonprofit tax exempt organization as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.  Donate Today! Or make checks payable to Sights on Health, Inc. and mail to: Sights on Health, Inc. P.O. Box 427 Setauket, N.Y. 11733 Transport team from Quito to Riobamba, Roundtrip   $550 Donated By: Oxygen tanks for patients while having cataract surgery $58 Donated By:  BSS (Balanced Saline Solution) for surgery 35 bottles @ $35 each, $1,225 total or $35 for 1 bottle Donated By: Non sterile gloves @$11.00/box need 20 boxes, $220 total or $11 each Donated By:  Bouffant hats for operating room box of 1000 @$70 Donated By:  Shoe covers 300 @ $35, need 2 boxes @$70 Donated By: Surgical masks 300 @ $44 Donated By:  Sterile surgical gowns 175@ $432 Donated By: Chlorohexidine for hand scrubbing prior to surgery 3 bottles @ $95 Donated By: Diane Farrel Steam Indicator strips 500/box @$38 each, $76 for 2 [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong style="color: #2f438c;"><em>Below are supplies our team will need in order to examine &amp; treat patients… perhaps you would like to purchase an item as a holiday gift for a loved one! Below print your gift receipt. </em></strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #2f438c;"><strong><em>There are all price ranges to fit everyone’s wallet…</em></strong></span></p>
<p><strong><em>Sights On Health</em></strong><em> is a nonprofit tax exempt organization as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. </em></p>
<p><a class="donate_link" style="color: white;" onclick="document.getElementById('donate_form').submit();" href="javascript:void(0);">Donate Today!</a></p>
<p>Or make checks payable to Sights on Health, Inc. and mail to:</p>
<p>Sights on Health, Inc.<br />
P.O. Box 427<br />
Setauket, N.Y. 11733</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Cataract-S.png"><img class="size-full wp-image-5339" title="Cataract S" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Cataract-S.png" alt="" width="640" height="52" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li>Transport team from Quito to Riobamba, Roundtrip   $550<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Oxygen tanks for patients while having cataract surgery $58<br />
<em>Donated By:<span style="color: #ff6600;"> </span></em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>BSS (Balanced Saline Solution) for surgery 35 bottles @ $35 each, $1,225 total or $35 for 1 bottle<br />
Donated By:</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Non sterile gloves @$11.00/box need 20 boxes, $220 total or $11 each<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Bouffant hats for operating room box of 1000 @$70<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Shoe covers 300 @ $35, need 2 boxes @$70<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Surgical masks 300 @ $44<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
<li>Sterile surgical gowns 175@ $432<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Chlorohexidine for hand scrubbing prior to surgery 3 bottles @ $95<br />
<em>Donated By: <span style="color: #ff6600;">Diane Farrel</span></em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Steam Indicator strips 500/box @$38 each, $76 for 2 boxes<br />
<em>Donated By:<span style="color: #ff6600;"> Mr. &amp; Mrs. Schram </span></em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Sterile Mayo stand covers 30/case @$45 each, $180 for 4 cases or $45 each<br />
<em>Donated By: <span style="color: #ff6600;">Dr. Jacqueline Armani                                    </span></em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Viscoelastic for eye surgery 45 vials @$45 each, $1,530 or $45 per vial<br />
<em>Donated By: <span style="color: #ff6600;"><em>Gilda Zirinsky $360 (8 vials)</em></span></em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>10cc syringes 400/box @$44<br />
<em>Donated By:<span style="color: #ff6600;"> <em>Dr. Jacqueline Armani </em></span></em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>3cc syringes 200/box @$22<br />
<em>Donated By: <span style="color: #ff6600;"><em>Dr. Jacqueline Armani </em></span></em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Sterile Instrument pouches 100 @ $22.58<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Intravenous solution for patients 40 bags for $180 or 10 bags for $45<br />
<em>Donated By:<span style="color: #ff6600;"> Katherine La Forte</span></em></li>
</ul>
<p><em><br />
</em></p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/med-supply.png"><img class="size-full wp-image-5347" title="med supply" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/med-supply.png" alt="" width="640" height="49" /></a><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/med-s.png"><br />
</a></p>
<p><strong>ANALGESICS, ANTIPYRETICS , ALLERGY:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Tylenol 1000 tabs $10<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Tylenol liquid for children to treat 6 children for $30<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
<li>Motrin 1500 tabs $35, need 4500 @ $105<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Motrin liquid for children 300 tabs for $20<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Benadryl 1000 tabs $15, need 2000 @ $30<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Claritin 500 tabs $28<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Prednisone 100 $10<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>EpiPen 10 doses @ $20<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Cough Drops 1500 @ $60<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>GASTRO-INTESTINAL:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Prilosec 1000 tabs  $57<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Dulcolax 1000 tabs $10<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>ANTIBIOTICS, ANTIVIRALS &amp; ANTIFUNGALS to treat infections:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Amoxicillin children’s dose 1000 tabs $40<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Amoxicillin liquid 40 doses $70<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Amoxicillin adult dose 1000 tabs $50<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Augmentin 50 tabs $25<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Augmentin children’s dose: treat 1 child $11, need 10 @ $110<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Zithromax 500 tabs $150<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Zithromax for children: treat 10 children $30, need for 40 children @ $120<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Keflex 100 tabs $10<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Keflex for children 1 dose $20, four children $80<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Cipro 500 tabs $50<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Tetracycline 1000 tabs $50<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Fluconanzole 100 tabs $20<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Levaquin 100 tabs $20, need 200 @ $40<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Bactrim 500 tabs $30<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Bactrim liquid 12 bottles $25<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Flagyl 1000 tabs $40<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Nystatin liquid  5 doses $10<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Zovirax 500 tabs $35<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Diflucan 100 doses $20<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>ANTIPARASITICS:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Albendazol 500 tabs $40<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Ivermectin 100 tabs $15<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Mebendazol 1000 tabs $25<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Permethrin 1 treatment for 1 person $10, need 20 @ $200<br />
<em>Donated By: </em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>ItchB Gone 1 treatment $35, need 2 @ $70<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>MEDICATIONS TO TREAT HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Lasix 1000 tabs $15<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Zestril 1000 tabs $15<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Lopressor 1000 tabs $25<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Terazosin 100 tabs $20<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>TOPICAL CREAMS:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Hydrocortisone 20 tubes $30<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Vitamin A &amp; D 144 tubes $10, need 288 @ $20<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>White Petrolatum 144 tubes $10<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Antibiotic 12 tubes $23<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Antifungal 6 tubes $15<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Antifungal 10 tubes $20<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>CARDIOVASCULAR:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Aspirin 1000 tabs $10, need 10,000 @ $100<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Metoprolol 10000 tabs $20<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Terazocin 100 tablets $20<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>VITAMINS/MINERALS:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Folic Acid 1000 tabs @ $25<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Infant Multivitamin for 30 children $130<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Children’s multivitamin 5000 doses @ $80<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Pre- Natal Vitamins 2500 doses @ $100<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Iron supplement 2000 doses @ $20<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Vitamin A 1000 doses @ $70<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>DENTAL HYGIENE:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Toothpaste  100 tubes @ $25, need 500 tubes @ $125<br />
<em>Donated By:</em></li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/donation-receipt-1.jpg"><br />
</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
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		<title>World Sight Day: Put People at the Heart of Eye Care</title>
		<link>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/10/world-sight-day-202/</link>
		<comments>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/10/world-sight-day-202/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Oct 2025 16:52:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sights on Health</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cataract Mission]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cataract]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://sightsonhealth.org/?p=5577</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[World Sight Day is Thursday, October 9, 2025,  a global call to make eye care accessible, available, and affordable for everyone. This year’s IAPB theme—#LoveYourEyes—asks all of us to put people at the center of eye health, from local clinics to national policy. At Sights on Health, this mission is personal. We’re a volunteer-powered 501(c)(3) delivering cataract surgery and medical care to communities with limited access in South America—working shoulder-to-shoulder with local partners to restore sight and expand care. Proof that access changes everything Since 2012, our volunteer surgical team has performed 825+ sight-restoring cataract surgeries—each one a patient gaining back independence, livelihood, and connection. In 2024, our Peru mission provided 78 cataract surgeries and hundreds of adult and pediatric medical visits—because vision is part of whole-person health. In 2025, we joined forces with FIBUSPAM Hospital in Riobamba, Ecuador, alongside SEE International, to deliver life-changing care in both urban and remote communities.  SoH performed 91 cataract surgeries, surpassing the team’s original goal.  SEE International With your help, we’ll keep putting people at the heart of eye care, Consider a contribution to the cause, click here.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p data-start="0" data-end="164"><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/WSD-logo-Horizontal_English.png"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5578" title="WSD-logo-Horizontal_English" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/WSD-logo-Horizontal_English.png" alt="" width="800" height="174" /></a><span>World Sight Day is Thursday, October 9, 2025, </span><span> a global call to make eye care accessible, available, and affordable for everyone. This year’s IAPB theme—</span><strong data-start="425" data-end="442">#LoveYourEyes</strong><span>—asks all of us to put people at the center of eye health, from local clinics to national policy.</span></p>
<p data-start="579" data-end="883">At <strong data-start="582" data-end="602">Sights on Health</strong>, this mission is personal. We’re a volunteer-powered 501(c)(3) delivering cataract surgery and medical care to communities with limited access in South America—working shoulder-to-shoulder with local partners to restore sight and expand care.</p>
<p data-start="885" data-end="924"><strong>Proof that access changes everything</strong></p>
<ul data-start="925" data-end="1576">
<li data-start="925" data-end="1138">
<p data-start="927" data-end="1138">Since 2012, our volunteer surgical team has performed <strong>825+</strong><strong data-start="981" data-end="1024"> sight-restoring cataract surgeries</strong>—each one a patient gaining back independence, livelihood, and connection.</p>
</li>
<li data-start="1139" data-end="1339">
<p data-start="1141" data-end="1339">In 2024, our Peru mission provided <strong data-start="1176" data-end="1201">78 cataract surgeries</strong> and hundreds of adult and pediatric medical visits—because vision is part of whole-person health.</p>
</li>
<li data-start="1340" data-end="1576">
<p data-start="1342" data-end="1576">In 2025, we joined forces with FIBUSPAM Hospital in Riobamba, Ecuador, alongside SEE International, to deliver life-changing care in both urban and remote communities. <strong><span style="color: #000000;"> SoH performed 91 cataract surgeries, surpassing the team’s original goal. </span></strong> <a href="https://www.seeintl.org/blog/see-programs-coordinator-visits-ecuador/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">SEE International</a></p>
</li>
</ul>
<p data-start="2389" data-end="2606">With your help, we’ll keep putting people at the heart of eye care, Consider a contribution to the cause, <a href="https://sightsonhealth.org/donate/" target="_blank">click here.</a></p>
<p data-start="2608" data-end="2719"><em data-start="2608" data-end="2681"></em></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>A Vision of Hope: Watch the Cataract And Medical Mission in Action – Riobamba, Ecuador</title>
		<link>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/07/5567/</link>
		<comments>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/07/5567/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jul 2025 15:35:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sights on Health</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cataract Mission]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ecuador]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://sightsonhealth.org/?p=5567</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Thank you FIBUSPAM and PACH for creating these wonderful recap videos! Cataract Surgical Mission 2025, Riobamba, Ecuador  Medical Mission 2025, Riobamba, Ecuador ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Thank you FIBUSPAM and PACH for creating these wonderful recap videos!</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ho9m9ZaJ_i0?si=j-p4EfCWafJmvqM1" frameborder="0" width="560" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Cataract Surgical Mission 2025, Riobamba, Ecuador </strong></p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qRMkKVtzvXw?si=LqkkmjUn1aLffp5s" frameborder="0" width="560" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Medical Mission 2025, Riobamba, Ecuador </strong></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>A Vision of Hope: Watch the Cataract And Medical Mission in Action – Riobamba, Ecuador</title>
		<link>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/07/cataract-surgical-mission-2025-riobamba-ecuador/</link>
		<comments>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/07/cataract-surgical-mission-2025-riobamba-ecuador/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jul 2025 15:24:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sights on Health</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cataract Mission]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ecuador]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eye care]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://sightsonhealth.org/?p=5560</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Thank you FIBUSPAM and PACH for creating these wonderful recap videos! Cataract Surgical Mission 2025, Riobamba, Ecuador  Medical Mission 2025, Riobamba, Ecuador ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Thank you FIBUSPAM and PACH for creating these wonderful recap videos!</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ho9m9ZaJ_i0?si=j-p4EfCWafJmvqM1" frameborder="0" width="560" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Cataract Surgical Mission 2025, Riobamba, Ecuador </strong></p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qRMkKVtzvXw?si=LqkkmjUn1aLffp5s" frameborder="0" width="560" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Medical Mission 2025, Riobamba, Ecuador </strong></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Day 5: Ecuador Mission 2025</title>
		<link>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/07/day-5-ecuador-mission-2025/</link>
		<comments>https://sightsonhealth.org/2025/07/day-5-ecuador-mission-2025/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jul 2025 16:22:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sights on Health</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cataract Mission]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ecuador]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Medical Mission]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://sightsonhealth.org/?p=5518</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Thursday, May 22nd, 2025  -  Medical and Surgical team saw patients closer to the home base in Riobamba. Ofcourse it was a busy day, but it was also the last day of patient care. After all was said and done, the medical/pediatric/optometry/dental team will have seen over 700 patients that would not have gotten care otherwise. The surgical team operated on 16 patients today&#8230; one of them the 7 year old cousin of the 14 year old. The best the 7 year old could do was see shadow of fingers and blind in the other eye and that eye could not be fixed. Of course we were nervous about operating on his one eye where he could at least see shadows. After multiple consultations amongst ourselves, arguing the pros and cons of performing the sight restoring surgery, we felt strongly we could give the child a chance to see again. So much could go wrong&#8230; infection, pain, loss of the eye. Post-op day 1&#8230; he was now able to see 20/100. Mom was committed to giving the child eye drops every 2 hours until it was deemed stable. Fingers crossed that he would continue to get even better. I hope [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>
<p dir="auto">Thursday, May 22nd, 2025  -  Medical and Surgical team saw patients closer to the home base in Riobamba. Ofcourse it was a busy day, but it was also the last day of patient care. After all was said and done, the medical/pediatric/optometry/dental team will have seen over 700 patients that would not have gotten care otherwise.</p>
<p dir="auto"><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503510103_1129911939175532_2246410433439821121_n.jpg"><img title="503510103_1129911939175532_2246410433439821121_n" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503510103_1129911939175532_2246410433439821121_n.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="360" /></a></p>
<p dir="auto"><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503492825_1129912305842162_4722853651395116_n.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5520" title="503492825_1129912305842162_4722853651395116_n" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503492825_1129912305842162_4722853651395116_n.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
</div>
<div dir="auto">The surgical team operated on 16 patients today&#8230; one of them the 7 year old cousin of the 14 year old. The best the 7 year old could do was see shadow of fingers and blind in the other eye and that eye could not be fixed. Of course we were nervous about operating on his one eye where he could at least see shadows. After multiple consultations amongst ourselves, arguing the pros and cons of performing the sight restoring surgery, we felt strongly we could give the child a chance to see again. So much could go wrong&#8230; infection, pain, loss of the eye.</div>
<div dir="auto">Post-op day 1&#8230; he was now able to see 20/100. Mom was committed to giving the child eye drops every 2 hours until it was deemed stable. Fingers crossed that he would continue to get even better.</div>
<div dir="auto"><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503504823_1129911709175555_5489321190840241370_n.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5521" title="503504823_1129911709175555_5489321190840241370_n" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503504823_1129911709175555_5489321190840241370_n.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="427" /></a></div>
<div dir="auto">I hope that this years successes and pictures help everyone seeing and reading these posts understand how much need is out there and how much your and donations are needed to take care of our fellow neighbors. It is only with our friends, family, and supporter&#8217;s help that we are able to provide the care that people desparately need.</div>
<div dir="auto">Everyone that we touch is someone&#8217;s father, mother, son, or daughter. Everyone deserves a chance to have better health and to regain independence and see again.</div>
<div>
<p dir="auto">Please consider helping SIGHTS ON HEALTH so we can do this again next year! <a href="https://sightsonhealth.org/donate/" target="_blank">Contribute here.</a></p>
<p dir="auto">
<p dir="auto"><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503695997_1129911969175529_8893885254861417721_n1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5524" title="503695997_1129911969175529_8893885254861417721_n" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503695997_1129911969175529_8893885254861417721_n1.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="360" /></a></p>
<p dir="auto"><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503712526_1129912079175518_4299264940322178430_n.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5526" title="503712526_1129912079175518_4299264940322178430_n" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503712526_1129912079175518_4299264940322178430_n.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p dir="auto"><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503788279_1129911789175547_1253956071991396639_n.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5527" title="503788279_1129911789175547_1253956071991396639_n" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503788279_1129911789175547_1253956071991396639_n.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="960" /></a></p>
<p dir="auto"><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503362147_1129912579175468_4014697564603589120_n.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5528" title="503362147_1129912579175468_4014697564603589120_n" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503362147_1129912579175468_4014697564603589120_n.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<p dir="auto"><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503712525_1129911865842206_6273949015364812546_n.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5529" title="503712525_1129911865842206_6273949015364812546_n" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503712525_1129911865842206_6273949015364812546_n.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="900" /></a></p>
<p dir="auto"><a href="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503920096_1129912382508821_418338415509152383_n.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5531" title="503920096_1129912382508821_418338415509152383_n" src="https://sightsonhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/503920096_1129912382508821_418338415509152383_n.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
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