Sri Lanka Eye Donation Society

Sri Lanka Eye Donation Society logo

Sri Lanka Eye Donation Society is a non-profit organization based in Sri Lanka that specializes in the donation and transplantation of corneas to patients with corneal blindness. Established in 1961, the society has grown to become one of the largest and most respected eye donation organizations in the world, providing the gift of sight to thousands of individuals across the globe.

History

The Sri Lanka Eye Donation Society was founded with the primary aim of combating corneal blindness in Sri Lanka and around the world. Since its inception, the organization has worked tirelessly to promote awareness about eye donation and to facilitate the process of cornea transplantation. Over the years, it has established a vast network of donors and medical professionals, enabling it to send corneas to over 50 countries, making it a significant player in international eye health.

Mission and Activities

The mission of the Sri Lanka Eye Donation Society is to eradicate corneal blindness through the promotion of eye donation and the provision of corneas for transplantation. Its activities include:

- **Public Education and Awareness:** The society conducts various campaigns and programs to educate the public about the importance of eye donation and how it can change lives. - **Cornea Collection:** It operates a 24-hour service to collect donated eyes, which are then processed and evaluated in their state-of-the-art laboratory. - **Cornea Transplantation:** The society provides corneas to hospitals and eye surgeons for transplantation, both within Sri Lanka and internationally. - **Training and Research:** It also engages in training medical professionals in the field of ophthalmology and conducts research to improve the outcomes of corneal transplants.

Impact

The impact of the Sri Lanka Eye Donation Society is profound. With a vast donor registry, the organization has been able to facilitate thousands of corneal transplants worldwide. Its efforts have not only restored sight to individuals but have also contributed significantly to the global fight against corneal blindness.

Challenges

Despite its successes, the society faces several challenges, including cultural and religious beliefs that may deter eye donation, the logistical challenges of transporting corneas internationally, and the need for continuous funding to support its operations.

Future Directions

The Sri Lanka Eye Donation Society continues to expand its reach and improve its services. Future directions include enhancing international partnerships to increase the global supply of corneas, investing in research and development to advance the field of corneal transplantation, and continuing to raise public awareness about the importance of eye donation.