Over 5,000 people have flooded Bukedea Teaching Hospital in just two days for the Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Eye Camp, a free three-day medical outreach giving Ugandans access to eye care most of them could never afford. Already, 1,500 people have been attended to, and 125 have had their sight restored through surgery at absolutely no cost.
The camp, organized by the Ruparelia Foundation in honor of Rajiv Ruparelia’s memory, runs until Sunday March 29. It covers everything from basic eye screenings and prescription glasses to complex surgeries that would normally cost between Shs3 million and Shs15 million in Kampala.
Victoria University Vice Chancellor Dr. Lawrence Muganga visited the camp on Day 2 and could barely contain his excitement. “This is life-changing work,” he said, applauding both the medical teams and Victoria University students who are on the ground running checkups, dispensing glasses, and supporting surgeries.
The crowd has drawn patients from across Uganda and neighboring Kenya, shining a spotlight on just how little access to affordable eye care exists in this part of the world.
Dr. Muganga also praised Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among for her efforts in mobilizing communities, especially the most vulnerable.
Doctors, nurses, students, and volunteers are working nonstop to keep up with the numbers. “The dedication here is incredible. These teams are the backbone of this entire operation,” Dr. Muganga said.
For many families at the camp, the decision to come was not hard. As Dr. Muganga put it, “This is the difference between suffering in silence and seeing again.”
The camp closes Sunday, and anyone who has not yet attended is encouraged to go while there is still time.
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