Eversight Connecticut Vision | Page 10

Creating a new reality and a world of difference Imagine a world without sight. Now imagine a world without sight in the midst of tremendous poverty and despair. That’s the reality for more than 1.5 million people in Pakistan who suffer with vision loss. Of those, more than 165,000 are affected by conditions that can be treated through corneal transplantation. Unfortunately, the 6th most populous country in the world also suffers from a lack of infrastructure and limited access to medical resources (among other turmoil) that further prevents patients from receiving the care they so desperately need. Eversight International is committed to creating a new reality for these populations by bringing safe, reliable eye banking solutions to developing nations around the globe. "We have an incredible opportunity to bring humanitarian aid to the region and new hope to the Pakistani people," says Collin Ross, Executive Director of Eversight International. “Through our network, we can provide the resources and knowledge to change the future of sight restoration for the people of Pakistan.” For many years, Eversight has provided tissue to surgeons in the region, but the overwhelming need requires a more intense focus on long-term solutions. Collaboration is key “It is crucial that we form strong, meaningful partnerships with local governments, medical professionals and opinion leaders in the region in order to be successful,” Ross said. “We’ve already made great strides in gaining the trust of local leaders and now we’re poised to bring our ideas to life.” The project has captured the attention of supporters in the United States too, with one Pakistani-American businessman pledging $250,000 in support of the initiative. “Philanthropic support like this is a direct result of the community’s faith in our mission and is essential to the international program’s long-term sustainability. When we are true stewards of the gift [eye donation], people naturally want to support our efforts and help grow our impact.” PACKISTAN To that end, Eversight is working to build a fully functional eye bank in Pakistan run by local professionals using our clinical best practices. In addition, we are committed to increasing the availability of corneal tissue by building a greater cultural acceptance of eye, organ and tissue donation through community partnerships and educational programs. AFGHANISTAN INDIA Collin Ross, Eversight International Executive Director (center), meets with partners from the region. Spring 2016 | V I S I O N | Page 10