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National Eye Center Celebrates 32 Years of Humanitarian Service with Ramadan Suhoor
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The National Eye Center, located in Saida, recently hosted its annual Ramadan Suhoor, marking 32 years of unwavering commitment to providing critical eye care. This dedication includes securing state-of-the-art medical equipment and performing life-changing corneal transplants. The May 15, 2024, event underscored the center’s role as a beacon of hope for those suffering from vision loss, reaffirming its mission to restore sight and improve lives.
The National Eye Center’s annual Ramadan Suhoor, held at Saida Restaurant, was more than just a festive gathering; it was a celebration of three decades of humanitarian work. For 32 years, the center has been dedicated to providing essential eye care services, acquiring advanced medical technology, and performing corneal transplants that have transformed countless lives. The Suhoor served as a powerful reminder of the center’s ongoing commitment to restoring sight and offering hope to those in need.
The suhoor ceremony attracted a diverse and distinguished group of attendees, reflecting the broad support the National Eye Center enjoys. among the notable figures present were former Minister Dr. Hector Hajjar, Representative Charbel Massad, and former Deputy Amal Abu Zaid. Religious leaders, including Bishop Maroun Al-Ammar, Bishop Elias Kfoury’s representative Father Joseph Khoury, and Ambassador Abdel Mawla Al-Solh, also attended, demonstrating the interfaith support for the center’s mission. Further demonstrating the broad support for the National Eye Center’s mission, Director of the Office of Deputy Dr. Osama Saad Talal Arqdan, businessman Hajj Muhammad danash, Head of the Chinese Lebanese businessmen Gathering Ali Al-Abdullah, Mr.Hassan Saleh, President of the Heritage and Habitat Association Antoine Abu Joudeh, Mamdouh Saab, presidents, heads of civil societies, media professionals, academics, and a large group of attendees and supporters of the National Eye Center were also in attendance. Mrs. Naglaa Saad, head of the center, along with Mrs. Sarah Saad and other dedicated members, warmly welcomed the guests.
The evening began with the Lebanese national anthem, setting a tone of national pride and unity. Maysa Houkini than delivered a welcoming address, highlighting the National Eye Center’s expanded range of services. These services now include not only corneal transplants but also regular eye examinations and the provision of eyeglasses to individuals of all ages. Houkini emphasized the center’s enduring role as a “source of hope,” especially during challenging times, offering smiles and unwavering support to those who need it most. Today, after a long interruption from organizing our Ramadan activities due to the Israeli attacks, we meet again with the center’s friends in this warm Ramadan suhoor,
Houkini stated, acknowledging recent difficulties and expressing gratitude for the continued support.
Mrs. Naglaa Saad, head of the National Eye Center, addressed the attendees, extending a heartfelt welcome to all partners and supporters. She reflected on the center’s 32-year journey,acknowledging the initial challenges,particularly the lack of awareness surrounding organ donation. From 32 years,we set out at the national Eye Center,
Saad began,emphasizing the center’s long-standing commitment. She continued, As all the beginnings, there were difficulties we faced, especially since people did not have a culture of giving organs, and this was new to our Sidawi society, but with time people were strengthened by the importance of the importance of the members after death and praise be to God we had cornea and therefore the processing of corneas increased and we entered the thousands of patients with the return of sight to their eyes through the talented corneas.
The center’s success in overcoming these initial hurdles is a testament to its dedication and perseverance.
Saad further elaborated on the center’s profound impact, stating, this is the story of the National Eye Center, and this is its message that would not have succeeded had it not been for you from our side since today.
She also acknowledged the recent period of disruption caused by the “unjust Israeli war,” which brought immense suffering and loss. In a poignant moment, Saad paid tribute to her late husband, Mustafa, whom she described as the driving force behind the center’s establishment. She recalled his personal experience with vision loss and his deep understanding of the importance of sight. Mustafa, I say if you are absent from us, your soul with us does not leave us in every corneal transplant process, and with every smile on the face of a child, a woman or any person we intended and his evidence and his eyesight returned after a long wait, for your soul, O Mustafa, all love and peace, and make sure that your spectrum will remain with us with every step of the work of the center,
Saad expressed, her words filled with love and remembrance.
Looking to the future, Saad expressed her hopes for Lebanon, extending her greetings to President Joseph Aoun and wishing success to President Nawaf Salam and the entire goverment in addressing the nation’s challenges. she also highlighted the collaboration with Mrs. Farah Akir, owner of Boutique de la Mod, who embraced the Suhoor idea with enthusiasm.Today, we invited this suhoor and the idea and the idea grabbed her with love and welcome the artist in the world of fashion and fashion, Mrs.Farah Akir, the owner of Boutique de la Mod and Mrs. Akar,enjoying passion,taste and love,and she offered her the idea,and she found that she had all the welcome,not for a propaganda,because she does not need her to look at the fame of her institutions,but her love is for her. Honor and its institution and thanks are extended to all those present with us who are with them and with their support we continue . . .
Saad concluded by outlining the center’s ongoing project: Securing modern medical equipment in the field of ophthalmology is more than necessary.
she emphasized the significance of the coinciding fasting period for both Muslims and Christians, viewing it as a sign from God to live in love, national unity, mercy and fasting.
Dr.Ibrahim Abu Taha, a dedicated volunteer at the center, also addressed the gathering, expressing his gratitude to all those who contribute to and support the National Eye Center. He emphasized the importance of providing accessible eye examinations and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting eye patients, highlighting the center’s vital humanitarian mission.
Restoring Sight, Restoring Hope: An Interview on the National Eye Center’s 32-Year Humanitarian Mission
Over 32 years, a single eye center has performed thousands of corneal transplants, transforming lives and defying expectations in a region marked by conflict and limited resources. This is a testament not just to medical skill, but to unwavering human compassion.
To gain further insight into the National Eye Center’s remarkable work,we spoke with Dr.Anya Sharma, a leading expert in global ophthalmology and humanitarian aid.
The Significance of Sustained Efforts
Interviewer: Dr. Sharma, the National Eye center’s recent ramadan Suhoor highlighted their remarkable 32-year commitment to providing eye care in Lebanon. Coudl you expand on the significance of such sustained efforts in a challenging geopolitical landscape?
Dr. Sharma: Thank you for having me.The National Eye Center’s enduring legacy is truly inspiring. Their sustained commitment to providing critical eye care in Lebanon, a region facing meaningful political and economic instability, underscores the profound impact that dedicated humanitarian initiatives can have. The significance lies not only in the restoration of sight—an essential human right—but also in the ripple effect on individuals, families, and communities. Restoring sight empowers individuals to participate more fully in society, enhancing their quality of life and fostering economic independence. This is especially crucial in fragile contexts where access to even basic healthcare is often limited.
Overcoming Cultural Barriers
Interviewer: The article mentions the initial challenges faced by the center,particularly regarding organ donation awareness. How have such cultural and societal barriers been overcome in promoting corneal transplantation?
Dr. sharma: Building a accomplished corneal transplant program requires more than just medical expertise; it necessitates addressing deeply ingrained cultural and societal beliefs surrounding organ donation. The National Eye Center’s experience demonstrates the importance of a multi-pronged approach. This includes:
- extensive public education campaigns: Raising awareness about the life-changing benefits of corneal donation and dispelling myths and misconceptions.
- Engaging religious leaders and community figures: Securing their support is essential in building trust and overcoming potential religious objections.
- Collaborating with local healthcare providers and hospitals: Creating a coordinated system for organ retrieval and transplantation.
- Sharing success stories: Showcasing the positive impact of corneal transplants on patients’ lives and families can inspire others.
Through sustained and sensitive engagement, the center has evidently built trust and fostered a culture of giving, translating into a thriving corneal transplant program.This showcases how transformative change can happen through targeted, patient community engagement.
The Importance of a Broader Approach
Interviewer: The center’s expanded services now include regular eye examinations and the provision of eyeglasses. Why is this broader approach crucial for extensive eye health?
Dr.Sharma: Addressing the entire spectrum of eye care needs is paramount. Early detection and treatment of eye diseases through regular examinations are crucial in preventing vision loss. Many eye conditions are manageable or curable if diagnosed early. Moreover, providing eyeglasses ensures that individuals with refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism can see clearly, leading to better educational outcomes, employment opportunities, and overall quality of life.This holistic approach, incorporating preventative care, ensures a powerful and wide-reaching impact on eye health. Implementing low-cost vision correction programs, as seen here, creates truly enduring changes to communities.
Interviewer: The impact of the “unjust Israeli war” and the resilience shown by the center were also highlighted. How can humanitarian organizations effectively navigate crises and maintain their vital services during times of conflict?
Dr. Sharma: Operating humanitarian organizations in conflict zones requires exceptional resilience and adaptability. Prioritizing the safety and security of staff and beneficiaries is always paramount. This involves implementing robust security protocols, conducting thorough risk assessments, and having contingency plans in place for emergencies. Furthermore, building strong partnerships with local communities and engaging in conflict-sensitive programming is crucial. It is imperative to act ethically and show sensitivity in times of conflict. Collaborating with other aid organizations can definitely help leverage resources and expertise. Advocating for peace and supporting initiatives aimed at conflict resolution can contribute to a more sustainable solution. The National Eye Center’s ability to resume its vital work after a disruption showcases this ability to persevere.
Key Takeaways for Sustainable Programs
Interviewer: What are some key takeaways and recommendations for other organizations seeking to establish long-term, sustainable eye care programs in resource-limited settings?
Dr.Sharma: Establishing sustainable eye care programs in resource-limited settings requires a meticulous strategy.Here are some key recommendations:
- Develop a comprehensive strategic plan: Focusing on sustainable aspects and including community involvement. Building long-term capacity amongst local staff is also critical.
- Prioritize training and capacity building: Investing in the education and training of local healthcare professionals is vital to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the program.
- Establish effective partnerships:
Restoring Sight, Restoring Hope: A Conversation on the National Eye Center’s Enduring Humanitarian Mission
Thirty-two years of providing critical eye care in a conflict-ridden region—that’s not just a important milestone; it’s a testament to unwavering human compassion. This is the story of the National Eye Center in Saida, Lebanon, and its remarkable contribution to global ophthalmology. To delve deeper into their impactful work, we spoke with Dr. anya Sharma, a leading expert in global ophthalmology and humanitarian aid.
Interviewer: Dr. Sharma, the National eye Center’s recent Ramadan Suhoor highlighted their remarkable 32-year commitment to providing extensive eye care in Lebanon. Could you elaborate on the significance of such sustained efforts within a challenging geopolitical landscape?
Dr. Sharma: the National Eye Center’s enduring legacy is indeed inspiring. Their sustained commitment to providing essential eye care services in a region facing significant political and economic instability underscores the profound impact that dedicated humanitarian initiatives can have. The significance extends beyond the restoration of sight—a fundamental human right—impacting individuals, families, and entire communities. Restoring sight empowers individuals to participate more fully in society, boosting their quality of life and fostering economic independence.This is particularly crucial in fragile contexts where even basic healthcare access is often severely limited. The long-term effects of their work on societal development are undeniable.
Interviewer: The article mentioned the initial challenges the center faced, particularly regarding organ donation awareness. How where such cultural and societal barriers overcome in promoting corneal transplantation?
Dr. Sharma: Building a successful corneal transplant program requires more than medical expertise; it necessitates addressing deeply rooted cultural and societal beliefs surrounding organ donation. The National Eye Center’s experience highlights the importance of a multifaceted approach:
Extensive Public Education Campaigns: Raising awareness about the life-transforming benefits of corneal donation and dispelling myths and misconceptions is critical. This often involves targeted campaigns reaching diverse communities.
Engaging Religious Leaders and Community Figures: Securing their support is essential for building trust and overcoming potential religious objections. Their endorsement carries significant weight within the community.
Collaborating with Local Healthcare Providers and Hospitals: Creating a coordinated system for organ retrieval and transplantation is vital. It requires seamless collaboration across medical facilities.
Sharing Success stories: Showcasing the positive impact of corneal transplants on patients’ lives and families can inspire others and demonstrate the tangible benefits of organ donation.
Through sustained and sensitive community engagement, the center has clearly fostered a culture of giving, leading to a thriving corneal transplant program. This demonstrates how transformative changes can occur through targeted, patient-centered community participation.
Interviewer: the center’s expanded services now include regular eye examinations and the provision of eyeglasses. Why is this broader approach crucial for comprehensive eye health?
Dr. Sharma: Addressing the full spectrum of eye care needs is paramount.Early detection and treatment of eye diseases through regular examinations are crucial in preventing vision loss. Many eye conditions are treatable or curable if diagnosed early.Moreover, providing eyeglasses ensures that individuals with refractive errors can see clearly, leading to improved educational outcomes, better employment opportunities, and an overall enhanced quality of life. this holistic approach,incorporating preventative care,substantially expands the impact on eye health. Implementing affordable vision correction programs creates truly lasting changes for communities.
Interviewer: The impact of conflict and the center’s resilience were also highlighted.How can humanitarian organizations effectively navigate crises and maintain vital services during times of conflict?
Dr. Sharma: Operating humanitarian organizations in conflict zones necessitates exceptional resilience and adaptability. Prioritizing the safety and security of staff and beneficiaries is paramount. This entails implementing comprehensive security protocols, conducting thorough risk assessments, and developing contingency plans for emergencies. Additionally, building strong local partnerships and engaging in conflict-sensitive programming is crucial. Ethical considerations and cultural sensitivity are paramount in conflict zones. Collaborating with other aid organizations can leverage resources and expertise. Advocating for peace and supporting conflict resolution initiatives contributes to a more enduring solution. The National Eye Center’s ability to resume its services after a period of disruption demonstrates this perseverance.
Interviewer: What are some key takeaways and recommendations for organizations seeking to establish sustainable eye care programs in resource-limited settings?
Dr. Sharma: Establishing sustainable eye care programs in resource-constrained settings requires a carefully planned strategy:
Develop a Comprehensive Strategic Plan: Focus on sustainability from the outset and ensure community involvement. Building long-term capacity among local staff is also essential.
prioritize Training and Capacity Building: Investing in the training of local healthcare professionals is crucial for long-term program sustainability. Transferring knowledge and skills directly to local teams creates long lasting impact.
* Establish Strong Partnerships: Collaborating with local and international organizations, governments, and community leaders expands resources and fosters collective impact.
The National eye Center’s success offers invaluable lessons for other organizations aiming to create lasting positive change in eye health worldwide.Their commitment serves as an inspiration and a model for sustainable humanitarian aid programs.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Sharma, for these insightful perspectives.The National Eye Center’s story truly exemplifies the transformative power of sustained humanitarian efforts. Their work serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of delivering holistic and culturally sensitive healthcare in challenging environments.
What are your thoughts on the National Eye center’s work and its implications for global eye health initiatives? Share your comments and insights below!
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