Up to 75% of blindness can be prevented if eye conditions are detected and treated early. Many conditions develop silently, without obvious symptoms, until permanent sight loss occurs.
That’s what happened to 68-year-old Lillian Shabangu from Tembisa, who lost her sight to glaucoma.
Lillian’s blindness came as a huge shock to her family. She had always enjoyed an independent life, and becoming reliant on her daughter was difficult for them both.
“My daughter would come home tired after work and have to cook and care for me. I wanted to be able to help myself and make life a little easier for her,” Lillian said.
Thanks to donors like you, Lillian found a way forward. And by sending another gift today, you can help someone else find a way forward.
She took part in SANCB’s Orientation and Mobility and Activities of Daily Living training programmes, where she learnt practical, everyday skills.
“I learned how to iron my clothes, make tea, peel vegetables and cook. These seem like ordinary things, but they mean I can take care of myself again.”
Today, Lillian enjoys greater freedom in her daily life.
“Losing your vision doesn’t mean you lose your ability to live your life. This training has reminded me that I can still do so much for myself.”
Lillian’s story is just one example of what your support makes possible.
SANCB provides vital services including screenings, cataract surgery, rehabilitation, Orientation and Mobility, Activities of Daily Living training and other programmes that help blind and partially sighted people live with greater independence and confidence.
Your donation can help provide these services to more people like Lillian.
So this Eye Care Awareness Month, from 23 September to 18 October, please make your eyes a priority.
Get your eyes tested – and, if you can, please send your gift to help someone living with sight loss.