Eye Donation Awareness in India: Inspired by Sri Lanka’s Global Legacy
Aug 12, 2025
Every August, Eye Donation Awareness Month reminds us to reflect, act, and inspire. While India faces an ever-growing need for corneal transplants, we need only look across the ocean to see what’s possible when a nation rallies behind a cause. Sri Lanka, a small island nation, has become a global symbol of generosity and compassion through its remarkable commitment to eye donation.
At Sri Eye Care, we believe India can follow this shining example — not only to restore sight but to restore hope.
The Sri Lankan Model: A Beacon of Compassion
In 1958, medical student Dr. F. G. Hudson Silva began collecting corneas in his own home. Rooted in the Buddhist principle of dāna (selfless giving), he laid the foundation for the Sri Lanka Eye Donation Society (SLEDS). By 1964, Sri Lanka had made its first international cornea delivery — in a humble thermos.
Today, the impact is phenomenal:
Whether you're adjusting to dry airplane cabins or humid monsoons, LASIK allows your eyes to stay clear and comfortable without fog, dryness, or irritation from contact lenses.
- 60,000+ corneas donated to 57 countries
- 3,000+ corneas collected every year
- 2 million+ registered donors
- 100% of corneas gifted free of charge
India’s Eye Donation Gap: A Critical Need
In India, over 1.2 lakh people are waiting for a corneal transplant — yet less than 50,000 corneas are collected annually. The gap is wide, but not impossible to bridge. With our population and deeply rooted values of giving, India has the potential to lead the global eye donation movement.
Why Eye Donation Truly Matters
- Restores Independence: Vision loss impacts livelihood, education, and mental health. A single donor can transform two lives.
- Unites Society: Eye donation cuts across religion, class, and age — an act of compassion we can all participate in.
- Answers Global and Local Needs: Many states and hospitals in India still face shortages. Your eyes could offer a lifeline.
How You Can Help This August: 5 Simple Steps
1. Pledge Your Eyes
Register with a certified eye bank or hospital. Inform your family — your decision can change lives.
2. Start the Conversation
Use social media to share survivor stories or tag your pledge using #GiftOfSightIndia. Conversations spark change.
3. Debunk Common Myths
- “I wear glasses or had LASIK” – You can still donate
- “Age is a barrier” – Anyone of any age can pledge
- “It delays funeral rituals” – Cornea retrieval is swift and respectful
4. Organize Awareness Events
Whether at your college, workplace, or community temple, help others pledge with eye banks or hospitals like Sri Eye Care.
5. Inspire Through Sri Lanka
Take heart from Sri Lanka’s model. If a small nation can light up the world, imagine what 1.4 billion Indians can achieve.
Our Shared Vision: A Sighted Tomorrow
At Sri Eye Care, we commit to:
- Supporting eye collection and transplant initiatives
- Educating patients and families about pledging
- Collaborating with eye banks and NGOs
- Offering advanced corneal treatment and post-op care
“In the tapestry of humanity, every act of compassion helps restore not just vision, but dignity and opportunity.” — Dr. Kaarthik Sriprakash, Lead Cataract Surgeon Sri Eye Care
This August, let’s go beyond awareness — let’s give the gift of sight. Pledge your eyes, share the message, and become part of a growing movement that brings the gift of sight to thousands.
Take Action Today
📞 Call: 080-6821-2843 | Visit www.srieyecarehospital.com
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