My recent visit to Uttarakhand, India, was an eyeopening experience, showcasing the profound impact of our projects. In January, I joined a team from our partner institute, the Vivekananda Netralaya Super Specialty Charitable Eye Hospital, during a community outreach exercise in the rugged terrain of Rudraprayag, where many villages are accessible only via steep, challenging footpaths.

What touched me most was witnessing elderly men and women blessing our community health volunteers with heartfelt wishes for good health and long life. It’s moments like these that remind us of the true essence of service – not just reaching but becoming a part of the community.

Since 2021, our team has tirelessly brought eye care to the doorsteps of those in the area. Whether braving freezing winters, scorching summers, relentless rains or storms, their commitment has never wavered.

Mountains may test our resolve, but they also teach us resilience and purpose. My sincere appreciation to the entire team for their steadfast dedication to transforming lives in these challenging conditions.

Emmanuel joined our team in India in 2021. As a Program Manager, he oversees programs in the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, often joining teams in the field to check in with partners and monitor projects. He has a Master of Social Work and has been working in the development sector for 15 years. He lives in Shillong, Meghalaya with his wife and two sons.

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