This project targets to fund 50 cataract surgeries for children in underserved rural areas in Bangladesh. The cases will be selected during regular visits in the 10 Hope Foundation Health Centers. In this part of the world, children often go blind due to cataracts that are completely preventable. Hope aims to prevent blindness and treat cataracts so that every child can live a normal, happy life.
A nationwide study by International Centre for Eye Health (ICEH), U.K and Child Sight Foundation (CSF) in children revealed that around 40,000 children are blind in Bangladesh. Two thirds of blind children have lost their sight because of conditions that could either have been prevented or they have conditions where surgery could restore sight. This project will take place in extreme poor rural areas in collaboration with Cox's Bazar Eye Community Hospital.
The screening process to identify qualifying patients will take place at the 10 Hope Foundation Health Centers in remote areas. Qualified patients will be scheduled for surgery that will take place in a partner Hospital.
The long term impact of this project is the insertion of the treated children in a normal life and social network by the recovery of his/her sight. These children will have a productive life that will contribute to the growth of Bangladesh.
