The Nasara Women Development Foundation (also known as Nasara Foundation), led by the First Lady of Kebbi State, Hajiya Zainab Nasare Nasir Idris, recently embarked on a life-changing medical outreach in the northern city where the sight of 1,500 persons, who had been living in darkness, being visually impaired were restored through its eye care medical outreach which was done in partnership with Tulsi Chanrai Foundation at Kebbi Medical Centre in Kalgo.
One of the most significant impacts of the outreach was the number of beneficiaries who received life-changing surgeries. Over 500 people underwent free cataract surgeries, regaining their sight and the ability to participate fully in daily life. These surgeries not only restored vision but also opened up new opportunities for these individuals, allowing them to pursue education, employment, and social activities that had previously been out of reach.
In addition to cataract surgeries, the Foundation also provided free prescription glasses to 1, 000 people. This simple yet essential intervention had a profound impact on the quality of life of many individuals, particularly those who struggled with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. By providing glasses, the Foundation helped people to see the world clearly and to participate fully in their communities.
The Foundation’s medical outreach in was more than just a one-time event. It was a beacon of hope that illuminated the lives of countless individuals. The Non-Governmental Organisation’s commitment to providing free eye care services to those in need was a testament to its dedication to improving the well-being of its community.
The outreach also had a broader impact on the community. By providing free medical care, the Nasara Foundation helped to alleviate the financial burden on families, who were struggling to afford treatments. This not only improved the health of individuals, but also strengthened the overall well-being of the community.
Furthermore, the outreach served as a catalyst for greater awareness of eye health issues in the state. By providing education and information about eye care, the Nasara Foundation helped to empower individuals to take better care of their eyes and to seek treatment when necessary.
The beneficiaries, whose joy was almost palpable, came from various Local Government Areas (LGAs), including Birnin Kebbi, Argungu, Jega, Koko Besse, Augie, Bunza, Dandi, and Bagudo. They were also drawn from the neighbouring states of Zamfara and Katsina, as well as Niger Republic. Most of them could not contain their joy and appreciation to Nasara Foundation.
Narrating her story, one of the beneficiaries, Amina Abubakar, who hails from Kusada LGA, said that, for many years, she had struggled to see clearly. The blurry world around her had limited her opportunities and confined her to her home. But when she heard about the Nasara Foundation’s outreach, she decided to take a chance. The journey to the medical centre was long, but the promise of better vision fuelled her hope.
Upon arrival, Amina was greeted with warmth and compassion. The Nasara Foundation team ensured that every beneficiary was well-cared for. After a thorough examination, Amina was diagnosed with cataracts and was scheduled for surgery.
The surgery was a success. As the bandages were removed, Amina’s world burst into vivid colors. Tears of joy streamed down her face as she saw her children’s smiling faces for the first time in years. Amina’s story is just one of many. .
Expressing her gratitude, Amina said: “I am so grateful to the Nasara Foundation. They have given me back my sight and my life”.
Shuaib Ibrahim, who came all the way from Zamfara State, said: “I was worried about how I would afford the surgery, but the Nasara Foundation took care of everything. I am eternally thankful”.
Fatimah Muhammad from Koko/Besse LGA, enthused: “Nasara Foundation has not only restored my vision but also given me hope for the future”.
Musa Ibrahim from Jega LGA had never been able to see his grandchildren clearly. “I can now see my grandchildren’s faces clearly. It is a blessing”, he said emotionally.
A student from Argungu LGA whose education was truncated for her inability to read, Hafsa Abubakar was excited at the prospect of returning to school. “I am so grateful for the free glasses. I can now read and write again”, she said.
According to Aliyu Bala, who came all the way from Niger Republic, “Nasara Foundation has changed my life. I will now be able to work and provide for my family. I am so thankful for the Nasara Foundation’s kindness. They have given me a new lease on life”.
The Nasara Foundation’s medical outreach, which spanned for four weeks, was a resounding success. Beneficiaries of the exercise were also fed during the outreach and provided with transport fare back to their respective locations.
By providing free cataract surgeries, prescription glasses, and other essential eye care services, the Foundation has not only improved the lives of thousands of people but has also set a shining example and testament to the power of compassion, generosity, and community service.
