Page 29 - The Indian EYE 090426

NORTH AMERICAN Newsline SEPTEMBER 04, 2026 | The Indian Eye 29

Showcase, highlighting EFA’s inno- “Vision is a right, not a privi- include the Robert Murphy Vision- innovation, and advocacy, the orga-
vative programs that integrate pre- lege,” Dr. Raju asserts, reinforcing ary Leadership Awards, recognizing nization has improved the lives of
vention, treatment, education, and the ethical foundation of equitable individuals and organizations that millions and brought the world closer
research. Among these initiatives is healthcare access. have made significant contributions to eliminating preventable childhood
a focus on Retinopathy of Prematu- A Life of Service and to global eye health. blindness.
rity (ROP), a leading cause of blind- Gratitude Leaders across sectors—includ- Dr. Raju’s call to action reso-
ness in premature infants. ing healthcare, academia, philan- nates as strongly today as it did at
Through targeted interventions, Dr. Raju’s work is deeply rooted thropy, and international devel- the beginning of his journey: “To-
EFA has contributed to early detec- in a sense of gratitude and responsi- opment—are expected to attend, gether, let us illuminate young lives
tion and treatment strategies that bility. Reflecting on his journey, he emphasizing the importance of and create a world without childhood
significantly reduce the risk of life- states, “I feel so incredibly thankful cross-sector collaboration in tackling blindness. Your support can change
long visual impairment. for my personal and profession- childhood blindness. The event will lives, restore vision, and empower
Dr. Raju’s model emphasiz- al gifts, and I make great efforts to also highlight opportunities for part- futures.”
es sustainable healthcare systems share those gifts with those in need nership and philanthropy aimed at As global stakeholders prepare
through institution-building and lo- of my services. I am ever grateful to scaling impact. to gather in New York in January
cal capacity development. Notable India for giving me stellar medical Reflecting on the organization’s 2027, the message is clear—ending
achievements include the establish- education for almost free.” journey, Dr. Raju states, “Since 1977, childhood blindness is not only pos-
ment of the Srikiran and Goutami This perspective has informed we have partnered with healthcare sible but imperative. Through col-
Eye Institutes in India, which have his lifelong commitment to service, professionals, governments, institu- lective commitment and sustained
expanded access to high-quality as well as his focus on building col- tions, volunteers, and communities effort, a future where every child can
ophthalmic care. laborative networks of support. The across the globe to ensure that ev- see, learn, and thrive is within reach.
The Goutami Institute, recog- success of EFA and its affiliated in- ery child has the opportunity to see, “Since 1977, we have partnered
nized as the Best Eye Hospital in stitutions has been made possible learn, and thrive.” with healthcare professionals, gov-
Andhra Pradesh by the state gov- through partnerships with board As EFA enters its next phase, the ernments, institutions, volunteers,
ernment, continues to grow in infra- members, healthcare professionals, focus remains on expanding access, and communities across the globe to
structure, staffing, and technological governments, and community orga- advancing innovation, and strength- ensure that every child has the op-
capabilities. nizations. ening global partnerships. The Gold- portunity to see, learn, and thrive.,”
Training local healthcare pro- Celebration, Recognition, and en Jubilee serves as both a milestone says Dr. Raju.
fessionals is another key compo- Future Directions and a renewed commitment to the “As we celebrate our Golden
nent of sustainability. By equipping organization’s founding vision. Jubilee, we invite global leaders,
physicians, nurses, and community The Golden Jubilee event at The work of the Eye Foundation philanthropists, healthcare innova-
workers with critical skills, EFA en- The Rockefeller Foundation will of America demonstrates the trans- tors, and partners to join us in hon-
sures that eye care services remain serve not only as a celebration of past formative impact of combining med- oring a remarkable journey of impact
accessible long after initial inter- achievements but also as a platform ical expertise with humanitarian val- and renewing our commitment to the
ventions. for future action. The program will ues. Through five decades of service, next generation.”

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