Boukari Is Back on the Soccer Field

by Belle Guzman | Jul 14, 2026

Home » Stories of Sight » Boukari Is Back on the Soccer Field

An Accident Changed Everything

Boukari waiting after cataract surgery in rural Togo

Boukari was playing with friends during recess when a stick hit his left eye.

The injury healed, but a cataract developed. His vision became blurry, and doctors told his family he would need surgery.

His parents wanted to help, but the cost was more than they could afford.

For the next year, Boukari struggled in school. Even after moving closer to the front of the classroom, he could not see the board clearly. His grades began to fall.

But what bothered him most was soccer.

Afraid of damaging his healthy eye, he stopped playing and watched from the sidelines while his friends continued their games.

A Radio Announcement

Boukari after cataract surgery through Sight.org outreach in rural Togo

One day, Boukari’s father heard a radio announcement that a Sight.org team would be providing free cataract surgeries nearby.

They traveled for an examination and learned that Boukari could be treated.

On the day of surgery, he was nervous. The medical team helped him feel at ease, and the procedure was completed quickly.

The following day, his bandage was removed.

For the first time in a year, he could see clearly again.

Back to School—and Back to Play

Boukari smiling after regaining clear sight through cataract surgery

Today, Boukari can read the board at school without difficulty.

He’s playing soccer again too.

His parents no longer worry the way they once did, and they are grateful to see their son enjoying life as a child again.

Thank you for helping bring sight-restoring surgery to families like Boukari’s. Because of you, one young boy can see clearly with both eyes once more.

Help us give sight & the gospel

Your gift restores eyesight in Africa

Sight Restored

Your gift gives the gospel to Africans

The Gospel Shared

Your gift transforms African communities

Communities Transformed

%

Thanks to generous funding partners who cover our U.S. administrative expenses, 100% of your gift to Sight & the Gospel goes directly to our work in Africa.

Secret Link