Jesse’s story

Jesse lives on a tiny, remote island in the Pacific. As a village chief and passionate gardener, he was very proud that at 74 he could still make a living and provide for his large family from the food he grows.

All this changed when he developed severe cataract blindness. Unable to care for his beloved garden or even himself, he became frustrated and sad, humiliated at being fully dependent upon his family.

Then he received news that a Foundation surgical Outreach Team would be visiting the main island of Vanuatu. Desperate for a chance to see again, Jesse climbed into a boat and made the long journey to Port Vila with the help of one of his children.

Thanks to the support of someone just like you, Jesse was able to have the surgery he needed to restore his sight. Just 24 hours later the bandages were ready to be removed.

Blinking and nervous, he opened his eyes. The blurriness gradually became clear and he could see! Jesse’s sadness fell away and he couldn’t stop laughing and smiling.

“Thank you to the people in New Zealand! Now I can see again!”

People like Jesse shouldn’t have to suffer from avoidable blindness. With your help, everyone in the Pacific can access the eye care they need.

Please donate today to give someone like Jesse the chance to see again.