Welcome to Combat Blindness International Summer Newsletter
Combat Blindness International
Dedicated to eliminating preventable blindness globally by providing sustainable, equitable solution since 1984.
This newsletter highlights about CBI Executive Director Reena Chandra's impactful experience in India with CBI's eye care programs, Heidi Lucarelli joining CBI's board, the launch of the Mobile Vision Van Initiative, and details of World Sight Day 2024 celebrations featuring Funkadesi.
A Journey of Impact: Reena Chandra's Transformative Experience in India
This past winter, CBI Executive Director Reena Chandra had the privilege of living in India, immersing herself in Combat Blindness International's projects.
Certified Ophthalmic Paramedic Program: She visited Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, where she witnessed the incredible growth of the Certified Ophthalmic Paramedic (COP) Program, now sustainable and integrated into the SCEH system, empowering young women through advanced training and career advancement.
In Saharanpur, Reena met the dedicated screeners who recently surpassed a million screenings since 2021. Their commitment and enthusiasm are driving the next steps to streamline efficiency and increase impact.
At Usha Kiran Eye Hospital, Mysore she observed eye screenings in schools and saw the transformative impact on children and their families, highlighting the importance of accessible eye care.
She visited patients at Jayapriya Eye Hospital in Hubli, including an elderly woman whose cataract surgery enabled her to return to work and support her family.
CBI's Impact So Far
CBI welcomes Heidi Lucarelli to our board
We are excited to welcome Heidi Lucarelli to Combat Blindness International’s board of directors. With over 25 years of nursing experience, including her role in the Madison Metropolitan School District's Vision and Hearing Screening Team, Heidi has been a vital contributor to our school screening program.
A long-time supporter, Heidi has visited CBI's projects in India and spearheaded the Mobile Vision Van Initiative. Her dedication and experience are invaluable, and we are thrilled to have her join the CBI family.
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CBI and MMSD's New Mobile Vision Van Initiative
Since 2014, CBI has partnered with the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD), US to conduct vision screenings for children in 3K to 5K. Also provide glasses for students from 4K to 12th grade, screening over 26,000 children, including 3,247 in 2023.
Despite the program's success, barriers like language, culture, transportation, and parental time constraints hinder follow-up care for children who fail their vision screening. To address this, CBI and MMSD are developing a Mobile Vision Van (MVV) to ensure essential follow-up eye care for every child.
World Sight Day 2024
Join us in celebrating World Sight Day 2024 and Combat Blindness International’s 40th Anniversary with an exciting evening featuring a special performance by the world music band, Funkadesi!
Date: Thursday, October 10
Event Schedule:
- 5:30 PM: Silent Auction & Presentation
- 8:00 PM: Funkadesi Concert
Location:
The Majestic Theater
115 King Street
Madison, Wisconsin 53703