One Hour Makes A Lifetime Difference

“I can see! I can see you, Mum!” Blaise whispered after the patches were removed.

Blindness Take Away Smile

Seven‑year‑old, Blaise, is bright, curious, and full of potential, but his vision was slipping away. He was blind in one eye and rapidly losing sight in the other. By the time dusk fell, he could hardly see his books, even when he held them close to his face. Football during recess reminded him of what he could not see, and this seemed like an exceptional activity.

Only One Eye Surgeon For Every Million People

In Rwanda, there are far fewer specialist eye surgeons than recommended, and many people live a long distance from hospitals that can provide quality care.

For families in Rwanda’s Western Province, reaching the Kabgayi Eye Unit means a 300km journey and several days spent at the hospital. For those living on low incomes, the cost of transport, time away from work, and the uncertainty of treatment make seeking eye care an overwhelming challenge. Affordable, high‑quality eye care is still out of reach for many, even when the solution is simple and effective.

A Journey Of Possibilities

With support from The Fred Hollows Foundation, surgeons trained through the Foundation’s programs were able to provide the specialised care Blaise urgently needed. After screening, he was referred to Kabgayi Eye Hospital for life‑changing cataract surgery.

Blaise’s treatment was made possible through services supported by The Fred Hollows Foundation and its local partners. In Rwanda, the Foundation works alongside government and communities to strengthen eye health systems and help more people access the care they need.

Dr Tuyisabe Theophile, a consultant ophthalmologist committed to improving eye care for children across Rwanda, carried out Blaise’s surgery. His skill, experience, and calm reassurance helped turn fear into hope — and made Blaise’s recovery possible.

Donate now to make a lifetime difference for children

Make A Gift Of Sight

You can help children like Blaise see again. Your donation helps training new surgeons like Dr Theophile, equipping hospitals, and supporting outreach programs that identify and refer patients in rural areas. By building local capacity, more children and adults can receive eye care close to home.

Your Support Matters

Without timely care, the consequences can be devastating:

Their sight may never return, even though their condition is treatable.
Their safety is at risk every day, as they struggle to judge distance or avoid hazards.
Their futures narrow, as they fall behind in school, lose confidence, and their families sink deeper into a cycle of poverty.

This is the reality for children like Blaise – and it is preventable.