Working within the one community of Oyugis, Kenya, the basic needs of the people clearly become defined, and we can look for ways to address those needs.
Recently Olalo of Hope partnered with GEM (Global Eyeglass Ministry) to bring a free vision clinic to the town. For 13 days a team of volunteers from the U.S. and the local community tested the vision of the people as part of our Medical program.
Through this process, we also were able to address medical issues that needed attention. Two of our own local volunteers ended up spending time in the hospital dealing with various ailments. Both are recovering at home currently.
Other obvious conditions were seen and addressed as people came each day to get their eyes tested.
In good practice with COVID-19 safeguards, hand washing stations were set up at the clinic and each person had their temperature taken prior to being tested. Amazingly only one person had to be turned away because they had a fever.
Through the 13 days of clinic, a total of 889 people were seen; 357 people were matched with prescription eyeglasses; and almost 530 pairs of readers were given out.
There is not much that is more precious than seeing the look on the faces and smiles (yes smiles even through the wearing of masks) of someone who can finally see clearly for the first time. It just makes your heart joyful and thankful...ours and theirs!
Several urgent medical situations arose, both at the clinic and in the surrounding community. Those we had knowledge of were sent to local hospitals for treatment. Malaria and typhoid are still prevalent as well as a growing number of injuries caused by recent changes in the roads.
Getting Urgent Medical care was all possible due to your generous hearts supporting the Urgent Medical Fund of Olalo of Hope - Kenya.
We thank you for your support, and the people helped Thank You because you cared and changed their lives!
Gratefully,
Merry Broughal
Olalo of Hope - Kenya
