Rakesh’s story

Eyes on The Road: Rakesh’s Journey to Clear Vision

Rakesh, a 48-year-old truck driver from Satna, has spent the last 11 years navigating the country’s highways to support his wife and three young children. As the sole breadwinner, Rakesh’s job is the backbone of his family’s modest life, but it hasn’t been easy. For years, he braved the harsh conditions of the road, particularly the dusty surroundings near cement factories, without realizing the toll it was taking on his eyes.

Over time, Rakesh’s vision began to deteriorate, making the already demanding job of driving even more dangerous. Despite the growing challenges, he chose to ignore the problem, fearing the financial strain of medical treatment. Little did he know that this decision would not only put his livelihood at risk but also endanger his life and the lives of others on the road.

Everything changed when Rakesh attended an eye camp organized by Sightsavers India under the National Truckers Eye Health Program—RAAHI. The Police Petrol Pump in Satna was an ideal location for the eye camp, aligning perfectly with the routines of truck drivers like Rakesh. As a regular fuelling stop, it provided easy access without disrupting their workday.

At the camp, Rakesh’s fears were confirmed: he had a distance vision problem that required corrective spectacles with a power of +1.50. But instead of the worry he’d anticipated, Rakesh found relief. The programme provided him with the necessary spectacles at no cost, a small gesture that had a massive impact on his life.

With his vision restored, Rakesh returned to the road with newfound confidence. He could now continue his job safely, ensuring his family’s financial stability. The National Truckers Eye Health Programme didn’t just improve Rakesh’s sight; it safeguarded his livelihood and, by extension, the future of his family.