Sizwe and his friends finally receive the gift of sight!

Do you remember the story of Sizwe that we shared late last year? “The Gift of Sight” appeal told the story of a boy from Ukhanyo Primary School who was struggling to see on the board because of a problem with his eyesight. We hoped that by sharing his story we would be able to raise enough funds to help not just Sizwe, but the many other learners at the school who also needed help. We are pleased to announce that thanks to the generosity of donors across South Africa, as well as the United States and the United Kingdom, 56 learners at Ukhanyo Primary School were able to be tested and 43 received their own pair of glasses.

It all began last year when we asked teachers at Ukhanyo Primary School to observe children in their classes (Grade 3 and older) and identify those who were battling to see on the board.  A total of 56 children were identified through this exercise, and over a period of six weeks, the learners were provided with vision screening through St Johns (assisted by Rotary). Out of the 56 children, it was discovered that 43 of these needed further testing, which was then undertaken by a local optometrist.

The children were, without exception, extremely well behaved and patient, spending their time in the St Johns waiting room reading and chatting.  The optometrist commented upon the contrast with those children that he tests in other areas.  

In the end, all 43 needed spectacles – which they now have, thanks to the generosity of those who responded to our GIFT OF SIGHT appeal.

Thanks must also go to St Johns of Fish Hoek who facilitated the screening, testing and provision of the spectacles at a much-reduced cost. 

We must thank young Sizwe for drawing our attention to the needs of children like him at Ukhanyo Primary School in Masiphumelele who were in dire need of help with the gift of better sight in their classrooms.