Ocular albinism patients get free testing and glasses
Lesedi Men’s Club and Osmans Optic handed over prescription glasses to beneficiaries at Ndaba Tree on Tuesday.
KwaThema – Lesedi Men’s Club and Osmans Optic handed over prescription glasses to beneficiaries at Ndaba Tree on Tuesday.
Dovola Mabena says he noticed how people living with albinism were seldom beneficiaries of charities ekasi.
“This is when I approached my brothers in the club and I explained my desire to help people living with albinism, and they agreed to support my vision.”
Mabena admits, initially, he did not know exactly what kind of assistance to offer.
“I had to do a little research to find out what they need most, and that is how we decided on the glasses route.”
Last month the club, with the help of Kwatsaduza Albinism Society, sent a total of 35 people to get their eyes tested.
Shakira Karolia, an optometrist at Osman’s Optical, explained that people who live with albinism suffer from ocular albinism.
Ocular albinism is a genetic condition which primarily affects the eyes.
She said 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.
Sindiswa Khumbuza, receptionist and consultant at Osmans Optic in Springs, says they were honoured to be part of such a great initiative.
“We want to be helpful to everyone in our community,” she says.
“That is why we offer free eye tests every Wednesday.”
Of the 35 people who were tested at the beginning of the project, 11 received their glasses at the event.
“Those who will not get glasses today have been referred to a specialist.
“Therefore, their prescriptions will be available after they consult with him,” explains Khumbuza.
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