Despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the UAB School of Optometry's annual Gift of Sight event was able to continue and provide free eye exams and glasses to underserved patients. Changes were made to ensure the safety of both patients and staff, and the event was spread out over multiple days to accommodate social distancing guidelines. Thanks to the collaboration between UAB, Rural Area Medical, Vision Service Plan, and Essilor, the event was able to help over 200 patients with various eye conditions receive much-needed care.
Gift of Sight: Providing Vision Care to the Underserved
Introduction
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Optometry's Gift of Sight event is an annual initiative that provides free eye exams and glasses to individuals in underserved communities. For over a decade, the event has made a significant impact on the lives of countless people who otherwise may not have access to proper eye care.
Background
The Gift of Sight program was established in 2008 in response to the growing need for vision care among low-income and uninsured individuals. UAB's School of Optometry recognized that many of these individuals faced barriers to receiving regular eye exams and glasses, which can hinder their education, employment, and overall well-being.
Impact of COVID-19
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Gift of Sight event continued in 2021. Modifications were made to ensure the safety of patients and staff, including:
Collaborations
The Gift of Sight event is made possible through the collaboration of several organizations:
These partnerships ensure that patients receive comprehensive eye care, including exams, prescription eyeglasses, and follow-up appointments if needed.
Success of the 2021 Event
Despite the pandemic, the 2021 Gift of Sight event was a success, helping over 200 patients with various eye conditions. Patients received free eye exams, glasses, and prescription medications, as well as information on eye health and resources for ongoing care.
Top 5 FAQs about Gift of Sight
1. Who is eligible for Gift of Sight services? Individuals who are uninsured or underinsured and meet income eligibility criteria are eligible to participate.
2. What services are offered at Gift of Sight? Patients receive comprehensive eye exams, prescription eyeglasses, and follow-up appointments if needed.
3. How can I volunteer at Gift of Sight? Volunteers are needed to assist with patient registration, eye testing, and dispensing glasses. Contact UAB's School of Optometry for more information.
4. How much does Gift of Sight cost? Gift of Sight services are provided free of charge to eligible patients.
5. How can I support Gift of Sight? Donations can be made online or by mail to UAB's School of Optometry. In-kind donations of new or gently used eyeglasses are also accepted.
The coastal city of Puri in Odisha is all set to host the annual Rath Yatra festival, which will see hundreds of traditional carpenters and painters bring the three huge chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra to Singha Dwara of Puri Srimandir. The security arrangements have also been beefed up with the deployment of 180 platoons of forces and special operations groups to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the festival. The President of India is also expected to attend the festival.
The Dalai Lama has released a video message on his 89th birthday to address rumours of ill health and assure his followers that he is recovering well from knee surgery. He thanked Tibetans for their prayers and urged them not to believe any false information regarding his condition. As he approaches his 90th birthday, the spiritual leader also mentioned that he will clarify questions about succession and his reincarnation.
A video of a man overfilling his car's diesel tank for a social media reel has caused widespread outrage in Ajmer, Rajasthan. The footage, which has gained over 530,000 views, shows the individual engaging in unsafe behaviour and wasting fuel. Following public uproar, both the young man and the petrol pump employee have been arrested, with the vehicle confiscated under the Motor Vehicles Act.
In a beautiful gesture to celebrate the 89th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the Bomdila Buddhist Society (BBS) organized a mass plantation drive in and around Bomdila Pass, West Kameng District. The event saw the plantation of over 300 saplings, marking the importance of taking care of the environment, according to the 12th Guru Tulku Rinpoche of Thubchog Gatsel Ling Monastery. The spiritual leader was prayed for the long life and good health as well.
On the death anniversary of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, Union Minister and BJP national president JP Nadda paid tribute to the late leader by distributing plant saplings at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi. Mr. Nadda praised Mr. Mukherjee's multi-faceted talents and described him as a patriot, educationist, and advocate of social justice. Dr. Mukherjee passed away at the age of 51 in Srinagar on 23 June 1953.
A third child has died from amoebic meningitis, a deadly infection caused by a free-living amoeba found in warm freshwater bodies in Kerala, India. The latest victim, 12-year-old Mridul, is the third fatality in the state in a week. Here's what you need to know about the infection and how to prevent it.
The Air Europa flight from Madrid to Montevideo was hit by severe turbulence over the Atlantic, causing chaos on board as passengers were thrown from their seats and one man was even trapped in the overhead luggage compartment. The plane was forced to make an emergency landing in Brazil, with conflicting reports of 30 or 40 injuries. This frightening incident raises concerns about aviation safety and the need for better solutions to prevent turbulence-related emergencies.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has identified over 37,000 instances of mosquito breeding in the city, prompting the issuance of 40,000 'challans' (legal notices) to officials and property owners. The breeding was found in various locations such as DDA and Delhi police offices, DJB pumping stations, and metro parking sites. In response, the MCD has warned against violations of the Malaria and other Vector Borne Diseases Bye-Laws 1975 Act and predicts heavy rainfall in the coming days.
Learn how to elevate your spring greens with a special cooking technique that adds a touch of luxury. This dish is packed with nutrients and flavors, making it a perfect addition to your seasonal meals. Find out how to choose and prepare the freshest spring greens for the best results.
A woman shares her struggle with mosquito bites and her experience trying out various natural remedies. From raw honey to ice to lemon juice, she provides her honest opinion on the effectiveness of each remedy. Her favorite ended up being raw honey for its soothing and healing properties, while ice was the most affordable and immediate solution for reducing swelling. She also warns readers to be careful with using lemon juice as it can cause blisters when exposed to sunlight.