Ana Maria, a young Ecuadorian mother of four children, always knew that her youngest son, Eduardo, may have a problem with his vision. His development was different than that of her other children and she noticed that he had some learning difficulties. She wanted to take him to an ophthalmologist for a screening, but the nearest public eye doctor was located hours away and she had no means to pay for testing, let alone for corrective lenses. Ana Maria heard that FIBUSPAM was offering free vision screening at her oldest child’s school and was looking forward to bringing all of her children to the school for testing. When it was finally Eduardo’s turn, the Ophthalmologist confirmed that he needed glasses and he was subsequently given corrective lenses. Ana Maria was so glad that Eduardo received the vision care that he desperately needed. Eduardo will have a better chance at excelling in school and living a healthy life with his new glasses.

Ana Maria and Eduardo’s story is just one of many. In collaboration with Vision Health International, FIBUSPAM provided vision screening and treatment to over 800 children and adults last week alone. Over 150 glasses were distributed and 59 adults were identified for cataract and pterygium surgery, which will be completed at our clinic in Riobamba over the course of the next month.

Last week’s mobile medical caravans were made exceptionally special through the participation of an extraordinary group of students from the Linden Hall Scholl for girls. Linden Hall students volunteered their time over their spring break to collaborate with FIBUSPAM in order to help Ecuadorian families in need. In addition to providing compassionate care during last week’s mobile medical caravanas, the students also traveled to impoverished communities to deliver gifts of food and clothing. We at FIBUSPAM thank the girls for their generosity and service.