Bernese Oberland residents donated 26,009 francs for eye surgeries in poverty-stricken areas in 2024.
Donations will fund 520 sight-restoring procedures for those suffering from cataracts.
- Bernese Oberland residents contributed CHF 79,091 to an eye-care mission last year.
- CHF 26,009 of the total funded 520 cataract surgeries.
- Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting an estimated 17 million people.
- A single cataract operation costs approximately CHF 50 in project countries.
- Donations provide vital medical services, enabling individuals like Oscar from Madagascar to regain their sight and future prospects.
The generosity of people in the Bernese Oberland has made a significant impact on global eye health. In 2024, their contributions to an international eye-care mission totaled CHF 79,091. A substantial portion of this, CHF 26,009, was specifically allocated to perform 520 cataract surgeries.
Cataracts: A Preventable Cause of Blindness
These operations are crucial for individuals in poverty-stricken regions who suffer from cataracts. The gray star, medically known as a cataract, causes the eye’s lens to cloud over, leading to gradual vision loss and, eventually, blindness. Worldwide, an estimated 43 million people are blind, and cataracts account for about 17 million of these cases.
The cost of a cataract surgery in the mission’s project countries averages around CHF 50. However, for people living in poverty, even this amount is often insurmountable. Many cannot afford the initial medical consultations, let alone the surgery itself. This is particularly tragic as cataracts are a correctable condition.
Children are also affected by cataracts in impoverished areas. Common causes for them include genetic inheritance, prenatal infections, and malnutrition. The mission aims to combat this by providing essential eye care services.
Restoring Sight, Restoring Lives
Last year alone, the International CBM Federation facilitated 103,000 cataract surgeries through donations. In total, approximately 1.4 million people received eye medical services in 2024.
One inspiring story is that of Oscar from Madagascar. At five years old, his vision began to blur due to cataracts. His mother, Felistine Rasoafiavy, a single parent raising four children, couldn’t afford the necessary surgery. “Oscar saw everything blurry at the age of five,” she explained.
Oscar’s eyesight worsened over the years. “I saw the wall table very bad at the end,” the now 13-year-old recalled. Fortunately, Felistine learned about a CBM-funded eye clinic in Tuléar through her church. The donations covered Oscar’s surgery, and he has since regained his sight.
“I see everything in school now,” a delighted Oscar shared. “I play football with my friends without any problems. I also use the customers of mom’s snack bar and help her in the household.” Thanks to the restored vision, Oscar can now pursue his education and build a brighter future.
