<div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr"><b>Lion Jyoti Toshniwal</b></div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">In the sprawling city of Nashik, a remarkable initiative has been transforming the lives of the poor and underprivileged population. Since its inception in March 2016, the Lions' Eye Care Project has been providing essential eye care services, including free surgeries, to those in need. Under the guidance of renowned ophthalmologist Dr. Sharad Patil, a dedicated team of doctors and paramedical staff works tirelessly to make a difference. Let's delve into the impact and scope of this project that has become a beacon of hope for thousands.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">A Growing Mission: From IOL Surgeries to Outreach Programs:</div><div dir="ltr">The Lions' Eye Care Project began by conducting 1,200 free IOL (Intraocular Lens) surgeries in its inaugural year. In just six years, the project has surpassed the remarkable milestone of 4,000 to 4,500 surgeries. The reach of this project extends across a vast area of 2,500 to 3,000 square kilometers, encompassing regions such as Javhar-Jategaon, Shide-Palse, Khanapur-Lakhalgaon, and Gondegaon-Ghoti. With Nashik being the sole city in this area, the project aspires to perform approximately 7,500 free surgeries annually, equivalent to 20 surgeries per day.</div><div dir="ltr">&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr">Aiding the Underprivileged: A Comprehensive Approach:</div><div dir="ltr">The Lions' Eye Care Project goes beyond IOL surgeries. It also provides services such as squint correction, refraction, and spectacles, all at no cost to the poor and underprivileged. Regular eye check-up camps are conducted in and around Nashik, where patients are identified and transported to the hospital in a 46-seater bus provided by the project. After the surgeries, patients are accompanied by a relative and are provided with a free meal, truly embodying the spirit of an "Outreach Program."</div><div dir="ltr">&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr">Expertise and Dedication:</div><div dir="ltr">The project operates with a technical team consisting of 8-10 doctors and 12-15 paramedical staff, all working tirelessly under the guidance of Dr. Sharad Patil. Their unwavering commitment to this social cause ensures that eye care services are available 24/7 to those who need them the most.</div><div dir="ltr">&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr">Changing Lives: Squint Correction and Beyond:</div><div dir="ltr">One significant aspect of the Lions' Eye Care Project is the squint correction surgeries performed on adolescent girls and boys. This transformative procedure not only improves their vision but also provides them with increased self-esteem and opportunities for a respectable life and marital prospects. With an average of 150-250 squint surgeries performed annually, the project addresses this specific need with care and expertise. Additionally, the project successfully tackles retinal problems, LASER surgeries, and other minor eye issues, ensuring comprehensive eye care for all.</div><div dir="ltr">&nbsp;</div><div dir="ltr">Supporting the Cause: Lions, Donors, and CSR:</div><div dir="ltr">The Lions' fraternity, voluntary donors from society, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds from Nashik industries play a crucial role in raising the necessary funds to sustain this noble initiative. Ongoing support and generous donations are vital to continue providing free eye care services and surgeries to the underprivileged population in and around Nashik.</div><div dir="ltr"><br></div><div dir="ltr">The Lions' Eye Care Project in Nashik stands as a veritable symbol of the power of compassion and collective action. Through the tireless efforts of Dr. Sharad Patil and his dedicated team, thousands of individuals have regained their vision, hope, and the opportunity for a better life. As the project continues to expand and impact more lives, your generous donations are essential to ensure that this transformative work can thrive. Join hands with Lions and contribute to this noble cause, bringing light to those who need it the most.</div></div>