For the vast majority of patients we see during our operations in Latin America, VHI is perhaps their last and best hope for regaining sight. This reality presents a tremendous challenge and at the same time offers a unique and remarkable opportunity, for in just a week’s time VHI volunteers have the ability to change—for the better—the lives of thousands and experience the abundant gratitude from those we help.

Post-op rounds on the mornings after surgery are so special. When the eye patch is removed and the patient can see her family for the first time in years, the look that comes over her face, well, it’s hard to put the emotions into words. Let’s just say, it’s why we do what we do. Kay Whitten, RN, Fresno, California

VHI has helped thousands regain their vision. But there is still much work to do. To continue its mission, VHI relies upon the generosity of many. You can help restore the gift of sight.

• Volunteer for an upcoming project to Latin America. VHI would like to hear from:
  Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, and Anesthesiologists
  Operating Room Nurses
  Ophthalmic Technicians and nurses, and
  Others wishing to assist in the clinic and eyeglass distribution center.
  
  
• Donate eyeglasses. Help someone read again, or sew again, or even return to work.
  
  
• Donate surgical equipment or supplies. Contact us at info@visionhealth.org to find out what equipment or medical supplies would be of help.
  
  
• Contribute funds. Consider that a gift of just $25 means 25 people will see an ophthalmologist, perhaps for the first time; $50 means one child will have life-altering strabismus (cross-eyed) surgery; $100 means one person will have sight-restoring cataract surgery; $500 sponsors one operating room nurse on one trip to Latin America, and $1,000 will help underwrite the cost of shipping our surgical equipment and medical supplies.

Please take 15 minutes to watch, Puede Ver la Luz?(Can You See the Light?). This documentary, filmed during VHI’s 2005 trip to Piura, Peru explains our mission, documents the tremendous need for vision health care in Latin America, and illustrates the strength and gratitude of those we serve, as no words can. Experience VHI!