The Burden of Cataract Blindness in West Africa
In rural West Africa, cataracts remain one of the leading causes of blindness—yet they are treatable. For many, the barrier is access to safe, affordable surgery.
Jean-Brice, a father of three and dockworker at the port in Benin, began losing his sight. He went to a local hospital and had surgery, but it failed and left one eye beyond recovery. When his other eye began to fail, he lost the ability to keep working.
When Blindness Took Over Daily Life
As his vision worsened, Jean-Brice depended on others for everything. His coworkers guided him at work. At home, his wife and children helped him eat, dress, and move around.
He shared that this was the hardest part—feeling unable to provide for his family.
Mobile Cataract Surgery in Togo
A friend told him about a place where people were receiving surgery at no cost. He didn’t believe it at first, but he went.
Jean-Brice traveled to Togo, where Sight.org provides mobile cataract surgery in rural villages.
The care was different from what he had experienced before. The team explained the process clearly and helped him feel at ease. The procedure was done carefully.
The next day, he could see.
Life After Surgery
Now Jean-Brice walks on his own. He takes care of himself again. He sees his wife and children clearly.
The things he once depended on others for are now his again.
We are grateful for everyone who made this possible, and for the many still waiting.