Springs – Lesedi Men’s Club and Osman’s Optical joined forces to give people living with albinism a better view of life.
“It is common for people with albinism to suffer from Ocular Albinism,” says Shakira Karolia, an optometrist at Osman’s Optical.
Ocular albinism is a genetic condition that primarily affects the eyes.
She explains that the condition reduces the colouring (pigmentation) of the iris, which is the coloured part of the eye, and the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
“We cannot promise them a perfect vision, but a better quality.”
Maria Makua (43) says that the last time she had an eye test was in 1998.
“I used to wear glasses but after a while, I stopped.”
She adds that the condition makes it almost impossible for her to read.
“When I watch television I have to sit close to the screen.”
Dovola Mabena, of Lesedi Men’s Club, says that this is a worthy cause for the organisation.
“We realised that because of ignorance many of the people living with albinism in our community are suffering and we are not doing much to support them.”
Mabena says they approached Osman’s Optical to donate eye tests.
“We have been overwhelmed with the response from them.
There are 35 people who will get free eye tests and glasses by the end of July.”
Makua, who is one of the beneficiaries of the project says that the glasses will give her much needed relief.
“It does cause physical pain sometimes when I strain my eyes.
So with the glasses I know I will be more comfortable.”
Lesedi Men’s Club and KwaTsaDuza Albinism Society Initiative are truly grateful to Osman’s Optical for agreeing to help these many people.
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