I had already heard about Orbis through friends, but for me it was something personal. It felt like self fulfilment. A dream come true. I have been a nurse for over 30 years, and I wanted to share what I have learned. Not just to treat patients, but to give something back and support local teams.
“It was a dream come true”: A nurse’s journey with Orbis in Rwanda
For International Nurses’ Day, we’re sharing Jane’s story. A nurse of over 30 years who volunteered with Orbis on board the Flying Eye Hospital in Rwanda. From training local teams to witnessing life changing care, this is her experience in her own words.
What Inspired You to Volunteer With Orbis?
What Was It Like Stepping Onto the Flying Eye Hospital for the First Time?
It was a mix of excitement and nerves. I did not know the team, even though we had meetings before. You always wonder what it will be like in person. But when we met, it just clicked. Everyone was so friendly, so approachable. There was an easy connection straight away and we worked well together from the start.
What Kind of Training Did You Deliver?
I supported training for local nurses in the operating theatre. That included how to scrub in, how to do gloving and gowning, and how to safely pass instruments during surgery. One moment really stayed with me. On the last day, when things were quieter, a group of nurses came over and asked to practise again. They were not rushing. They just wanted to learn. They kept asking, “Can I try?” and “Me as well.” That willingness to learn made a big impression on me.
Your support can help fund more Flying Eye Hospital projects where nurses like Jane can help share their knowledge with local communities.
Why Is Training Local Teams so Important?
We are not only helping patients in that moment. We are sharing skills and knowledge that stay with those nurses for life. They can continue using what they have learned and help many more patients in their own communities. That is the real impact.
Was There a Patient You Will Never Forget?
Yes. A young girl, around five or six years old, with a large mass near her eye. I remember thinking about how that might affect her as she grows up. Her confidence, her wellbeing, her future. Later, I saw that she had received treatment. Because of this programme, she was given that chance. That is something I will always carry with me.
How Did This Experience Compare to Your Work in the UK?
In the UK, I work in a glaucoma clinic, which is more steady and routine. On the Flying Eye Hospital, the energy is very different. Everyone is focused. Everyone is ready to help. You can feel it as soon as you start the day. There is a real sense of purpose.
What Was It Like Working With the Orbis Team?
It was amazing. We had people from many different countries, all working towards the same goal. I worked closely with Elisa, and even though we had just met, we understood each other straight away. We could anticipate what was needed without even speaking. It felt like true teamwork.
What Would You Say to Someone Thinking About Supporting Orbis?
I would really encourage it. Orbis is not only restoring sight. It is building skills, sharing knowledge, and strengthening eye care for the future. We leave something behind that lasts far beyond our time there. For me, it was an extraordinary experience. A dream come true.
