Organization for Human Development Initiatives through Research (OHDIR) Foundation is a national NGO working with the motto of human development. OHDIR Foundation is a non-profit making organization and it is registered as a non-government organization with the Department of Joint Stock Companies & Firms, Bangladesh (10.01.2012- Reg no-S-11343). From the date of commencement, OHDIR Foundation is working in the health sector of Bangladesh mainly in Dhaka, Kishoreganj and Moulvibazar District. In the course of the journey of last twelve years, OHDIR Foundation has established three primary health care centers at Tarail & Mithamoin Upazila of Kishoreganj and Kamalganj Upazila of Moulvibazar District. This prolonged voyage provided a lesson to OHDIR Foundation that philanthropic action needs only a single initiative rather than loitering here and there for foreign fund.
Program Overview:
The Eyesight Restoration Program is a humanitarian initiative aimed at providing free cataract surgeries to underprivileged individuals suffering from vision impairment. This program is sponsored by Lion Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman Bhuiyan and implemented by OHDIR Foundation with the help of Lions Club of Dhaka Oasis. The program has successfully restored sight to individuals who would otherwise remain visually impaired due to financial constraints. On 14th January 2025, this program has exceeded its performance number 100 and this is the inspiration of this post.
Implementation Details:
- Total Surgeries Conducted: 103
- Locations: Tarail Upazila of Kishoreganj and Kamlganj Upazila of Moulvibazar
- Duration: January 2022 to January 2025
- Sponsoring Partner: Lion Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman Bhuiyan
- Implementing Organization: OHDIR Foundation
Objectives:
- To provide free cataract surgeries to underprivileged individuals.
- To restore vision and improve the quality of life for patients.
- To raise awareness about preventable blindness and eye care.
- To strengthen community health services related to eye care.
Program Activities:
- Screening Camps: The program conducted multiple eye screening camps to identify patients requiring cataract surgery.
- Preoperative Care: Patients diagnosed with cataracts received necessary medical evaluations to ensure they were fit for surgery.
- Cataract Surgeries: Surgeries were performed by qualified ophthalmologists using standard medical procedures.
- Postoperative Care & Follow-ups: Patients were monitored after surgery to ensure proper recovery and optimal vision restoration.
- Community Engagement & Awareness: Awareness sessions were held to educate the local community about eye health, early diagnosis, and preventive measures.
Impact & Success Stories:
The program has had a profound impact on the lives of beneficiaries. Many individuals who were struggling with visual impairment have regained their independence, enabling them to carry out daily activities and improve their economic productivity. Testimonials from patients and their families reflect immense gratitude for the restoration of sight, which has brought back hope and dignity into their lives.
Challenges & Lessons Learned:
While the program has been successful, some challenges were encountered, including:
- Limited accessibility for patients in remote areas.
- Need for increased awareness about free eye care services.
- Ensuring long-term sustainability and follow-up services.
Conclusion & Future Recommendations:
The Eyesight Restoration Program has demonstrated significant success in reducing cataract-related blindness in Tarail Upazila and Kamlganj Upazila. The sponsorship by Lion Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman Bhuiyan and the dedicated efforts of the OHDIR Foundation have played a pivotal role in transforming lives. Moving forward, expanding the program to other underserved areas and incorporating additional eye care services such as glaucoma screening and spectacles distribution would further enhance its impact. With extended support, this initiative can serve as a model for sustainable eye care programs, ensuring a brighter future for many more individuals in need. OHDIR Foundation can also extend the area of service if some other philanthropic person.
Lessons learned include the importance of community involvement, early detection, and the need for continued collaboration between healthcare providers and sponsors to expand the program’s reach.
