Recently Abi, Orbis’s Content Producer visited Orbis-supported projects in Odisha, India. This trip allowed her to capture and document the stories of the lives that your support is making on those who are at risk of sight loss.
The visit took her deep into rural villages, where she not only saw the challenges of living without proper eye care, but also the profound impact your support of Orbis is making in these communities.
We sat down with Abi to hear more about her trip.
“I travelled to Odisha, a state in eastern India, to capture the stories of those whose lives were changed by our supporters. We stayed in a city called Sambalpur, and each day we drove over 100km to the villages. These rural areas were nestled among rice fields and sari-weaving communities – each with its own unique story.”
During this trip, Abi was able to see the difference your support can make.
“During the trip, I visited a partner hospital in Sambalpur, where a children’s eye care unit was established by Doctor Sindhu, who was trained by Orbis. I also visited a Green Vision Centre in a local town. As these vision centres are community-based, it means that people (particularly women) who can't travel long distances on their own (due to safety concerns or having limited free time due to household, childcare, or other responsibilities) are still able to access care for themselves and their children."
Here is the Green Vision Centre that Abi visited during her trip to India. Your support helps centres like this one carry on the work that is so important for eye care.
"It was amazing to see the direct impact of our supporters' donations. Witnessing firsthand how their generosity translates into life-changing medical care was truly inspiring. To know that the children I met were going to have their vision transformed thanks to Orbis UK funding was a powerful reminder of the importance of our fundraising work. Seeing the smiles on their faces and the hope in their families' eyes reinforced just how vital these contributions are. It’s not just about restoring sight—it’s about giving children the opportunity to learn, play, and build a brighter future. This experience has deepened my commitment to ensuring that more children receive the eye care they so desperately need.”
By supporting Orbis you are making a change to those who need it most.
“This trip made me realise the importance of raising awareness in communities. It’s not just about providing treatment and training – it's about dispelling myths and educating people.”
“In the villages I visited, many believed that strabismus (crossed eyes) was a blessing for girls. This misconception stops girls from receiving the treatment they need. Awareness is the first step toward breaking these barriers.”
Together, we can create a brighter future for those in need of eye care around the world.
“The most impactful way to support Orbis is through donations. Your generosity directly helps bring life-changing eye care to communities in need.”
“Another powerful way to help is by spreading awareness. Share the stories Orbis shares with you – whether it’s at a dinner party or in a casual conversation. For example, if someone talks about a loved one who had eye surgery, you can share how Orbis is making a difference in the lives of people around the world.”
“We often take our eyesight for granted, but in the UK, as well as in developing countries, there is still a lot of confusion around eye conditions. By helping raise awareness, you can be part of the change.”
Through your support, you can join Orbis in bringing life-changing vision care to those who need it most. Whether through a donation or by spreading the word, together, we can make a world of difference.
