Mahto’s story

Mahto’s Journey to Clearer Vision

Mahto’s story exemplifies the profound impact of Sightsavers India’s Rural Eye Health (REH) Programme in Jharkhand, undertaken in collaboration with the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCB) and the Government of Jharkhand.

At 50 years old, Mahto, a resident of a small village in Ranchi, faced daunting challenges. A severe infection had led to the amputation of his right leg, stripping him of his livelihood as a construction worker and imposing significant financial hardship. The loss of his leg severely restricted his mobility, making everyday tasks arduous and further exacerbating his financial difficulties. Amid these struggles, Mahto attended an eye screening camp conducted under the gambit of Sightsavers India’s REH Programme, organised by Shalini Hospital. His deteriorating eyesight prevented him from reading and seeing close objects, complicating his daily life and diminishing his independence.

Following this assessment, he was provided with custom-tailored spectacles designed to meet his specific needs. These specially crafted spectacles significantly improved his vision, allowing him to read and see objects more clearly. This intervention restored a sense of independence and markedly enhanced his quality of life. Effective collaborations are the necessary tools that enable an individual to navigate his daily life with greater autonomy and confidence.