“Raising awareness is the first step to dispelling myths and encouraging more people to pledge their eyes.-Dr. Rajani. M, Joint Director (Medical) Directorate of Health & Family Welfare Services Karnataka

Bangalore, September 10, 2024: On the observance of National Eye Donation Fortnight, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, today organized a Walkathon aimed at raising awareness about the life-changing impact of eye donation. More than 150 students from Aurobindo School, Rajajinagar, along with doctors and staff, participated in the march to encourage the community to pledge their eyes and provide the invaluable gift of sight to those in need.

The event sought to dispel misconceptions and address barriers that often prevent individuals from donating their eyes. Students carried placards with powerful messages promoting eye donation, symbolizing their commitment to this noble cause. The Walkathon was flagged off by A.R. Sapthagiri Gowda, District President, Bangalore Central BJP, and Dr. Rajani M., Joint Director (Medical), Directorate of Health & Family Welfare Services, Karnataka.

A.R. Sapthagiri Gowda highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating “It is truly an honor to be part of this noble endeavor by Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital. Eye donation is an act of kindness with the power to transform lives by offering the priceless gift of sight. The hospital’s efforts, especially in collaboration with Aurobindo School, demonstrate a shared responsibility towards building a society with better visual health.”

Dr. Rajani M., Joint Director (Medical), also emphasized “Raising awareness is the first step to dispelling myths and encouraging more people to pledge their eyes. Through education and advocacy, we can bridge the gap and ensure that those in need of corneal transplants have access to this life-changing treatment. I encourage everyone to support this cause and be part of this mission to restore sight.”

According to the National Blindness & Visual Impairment Survey 2015-2019, 1.99% of India’s population over the age of 50 suffers from blindness, making eye donation a critical public health initiative. Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Bank, established in 1975, has transplanted over 30,000  plus corneas and continues to be a leader in promoting eye donation through awareness campaigns, education, and online registration.

Dr. Rakesh S, Regional Head of Retina Services, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, Bengaluru, explained “Knowledge and education are the keys to overcoming the barriers to eye donation. These barriers include concerns about transparency in the use of corneas, lack of family consent, cultural beliefs about keeping the body intact, and fears about the treatment of the body during the donation process. With each donor, we can improve the lives of four individuals, as each cornea can restore sight to two people. We encourage everyone to take this step and pledge their eyes to benefit those in need.”

Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital is also introducing advanced corneal transplant techniques such as Pre Descemet Endothelial Keratoplasty (PDEK), pioneered by Dr. Amar Agarwal, which has achieved remarkable success in improving patients’ vision post-transplant.

Following the Walkathon, the hospital has planned awareness programs, educational events, and blindness screenings to further promote eye health and increase pledges for eye donation.

Together, we can make a difference. “When WE comes before ME, humanity moves forward.” Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital urges everyone to pledge their eyes and help restore sight to those in need.