Patient Stories

A Birthday Miracle

On his birthday, Sam, a Texas handyman, got the gift that keeps giving: clear vision after bilateral cataract surgery through the ASCRS Foundation and Operation Sight. Volunteer surgeon Zaina Al-Mohtaseb, MD, and the team at Whitsett Vision Group in Spring, Texas, helped make this life-changing surgery possible by dedicating their time and expertise.

Before his surgery, cloudy sight meant no evening handyman jobs, lost income, and financial strain. Sam found it was most difficult trying to do electrical work in dim lighting.

After? He’s booking extra work, rebuilding stability, and seeing his world—and family—clearly again.

Sam referred to Dr. Al-Mohtaseb as “an angel sent from above,” highlighting both her talent and kindness.

This isn’t just about eyes; it’s about restoring independence, hope, and economic contribution to communities.

A Writer’s Blessing

Tom, a published writer who has battled vision issues for over a decade, recently shared an emotional message with our program manager, Sarah. He is overwhelmed with gratitude as he prepares for his cataract surgery at the Virginia Eye Institute, seeing it as a blessing that will allow him to continue his work. Tom is excited about publishing his baseball book and the preservation of his cultural journal about Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay, which is archived at the Library of Virginia. His journey has been filled with challenges, including emergency retina surgery and cataract surgeries, but he never lets these setbacks hinder his creative drive. Despite these struggles, he published 30 issues of his magazine over 10 years, a project that was critically acclaimed but ultimately folded due to declining readership. Tom’s work may not have made him prosperous, but it has left an important cultural legacy. He recognizes how essential his vision is to his well-being and his ability to contribute as a writer. Tom expressed his deep thanks for the Foundation’s role in restoring the gift of sight, which will empower him to continue his passion. He’s truly grateful for the opportunity to share his journey.

Frank’s Newfound Independence

Frank, the proud owner of a local Jacksonville frame shop, had been struggling with advanced cataracts in both eyes, which left him nearly blind. The heartbreaking reality was that he was unable to afford the surgery he needed. The challenges he faced were more than just a physical struggle; they threatened to rob him of his livelihood. But then, a compassionate patron, who noticed the toll his vision problems were taking on his work, handed him the card of Dr. Jeffrey Levenson. Thanks to Dr. Levenson and the volunteer efforts of Operation Sight, Frank was able to have cataract surgery on both eyes. Today, Frank is once again able to move around his shop with ease, something that was once a significant challenge. He’s regained his confidence and independence, and is deeply thankful for this second chance.

Glenn’s New Vision

Glenn had been living with severe cataracts, and he feared going blind in both eyes, which he thought might lead to an early death. His world was blurry and monochromatic, making everyday tasks nearly impossible—he couldn’t read emails or books, shop without help, or even walk upstairs safely for fear of falling. His interactions with others were limited to his immediate family, and he couldn’t enjoy simple activities like watching TV or videos. After cataract surgery, performed by Dr. Aaron Cohn, Glenn’s life was transformed. The results were immediate and profound. His best friend recalls how, for the first time in over a year, Glenn was smiling and laughing with joy as he marveled at the world around him. Today, Glenn can read again, watch TV, send emails, shop on his own, and navigate stairs without fear. His vision has been restored and so has his optimism for life. Glenn is deeply grateful for Operation Sight and Dr. Cohn’s skill and compassion.

Donate Now

Your donation, big or small, can have a life-changing impact on patients like these and the many more like them. Donate today and help make an impact in your community and around the country. Help brighten someone’s day by contributing to restoring sight and helping others see clearly.