See International is about restoring sight and transforming lives. Our mission provides sustainable medical, surgical, and educational services through volunteer ophthalmic surgeons with the objectives of restoring sight and preventing blindness to disadvantaged individuals worldwide.
With over 40 years of service here is what they have accomplished:
3.8 MILLION
FREE VISION SCREENINGS
SEE has reached millions of people worldwide since 1974, providing free screenings and services to those who otherwise would not have had the finances or the access to quality eye care.
460,000
SURGERIES GIVING SIGHT
Over 40 years, SEE staff and hundreds of volunteer eye surgeons have given sight to thousands of people, transforming the life of the patient, their family, and their entire community.
80+
COUNTRIES WORLDWIDE
In many developing countries, blindness is an underlying cause of poverty and hunger. Eye care is largely unavailable, too expensive, or unsafe. SEE Docs provide high-quality vision care to all.
Randy said patients are treated for cataracts, glaucoma, strabismus, and diabetic retinopathy.
Medical supplies and equipment are donated by corporate sponsors, donors, and service clubs. He spends 50% of his time Fundraising to support this non-profit organization which he enjoys doing.
In developing countries, blindness is a major issue. Blindness is an underlying cause of poverty and hunger in developing countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that of the world’s 36 million blind people:
89% live in developing countries
More than 75% of the cases are avoidable or treatable
Over a third are blinded of cataracts
SEE International’s primary focus is on cataract surgery. This type of surgery is one of the most cost-effective of all health interventions. All it takes is about $100 and a volunteer SEE surgeon can restore the sight of a person who has been blind with cataracts for 5, 10, or even 20 years with a local anesthetic and a 30-minute surgery!
Randy showed a six-minute YouTube video that shows what is happening in these countries. Dr. Helena Ndume has restored eyesight for many and continues to do great work.
Randy showed a six-minute YouTube video entitled “A Chance to See Again”. The web address is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFT7Pkh1-Yk. This video was very moving as our Rotarians watched those with eyesight problems. Dr. Helena Ndume has done many eye surgeries to restore the eyes for many.
See International supports and partners with developing countries to assist.
For more information at See International, go to https://www.seeintl.org/about.
The Rotary Club of Vandenberg members and guest thank Randy for a very informative and moving talk.