This year Vision Aid Overseas joined forces with Optometry Giving Sight in the World Sight Day Challenge, and a record number of practices across the UK have taken part.

Multiples, including Staines and Egham Specsavers Opticians will donate a percentage from spectacles purchased during October 8-15.

Mark Adams and his staff in Braunton, Devon, dressed to impress as famous spectacle wearers such as Dame Edna Everage and Harry Potter. Mr Adams will also donate his eye exam fees from World Sight Day along with many others.

"I'm always overwhelmed by the efforts practice staff go to, this year we have everything from cake sales to fancy dress," commented Louise Walpole, Optometry Giving Sight's country manager. "Jeremy Jalie from Vision Aid Overseas and I are truly humbled by the commitment shown to helping to provide eye care services to those less fortunate. This year, practices are being joined by companies who are also holding workplace events to raise funds for the Challenge."

The optical profession and industry are also participating in the Optometry Giving Sight World Sight Day Challenge in Canada, the United States, Singapore, Norway, Ireland and Australia.

CIBA Vision staff across Europe, America and the Asia Pacific are taking the World Sight Day Company Challenge and other companies are involving their staff and customers. Optometry students are also taking the Challenge and have organised fun fundraising activities including raffles, coffee mornings and BBQs.

“Thank you to everyone for taking the WSDC,” said Ms Walpole. “Your funds will be directed to sustainable vision care programs which train local eye care professionals, develop infrastructure and deliver eye exams and glasses in countries such as Sri Lanka, South Africa and
Mozambique.”

For more information visit www.givingsight.org.

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ruhena ahmad
October 13th, 2009
This is fascinating stuff...I LOVE EYES!