This year we have reached a major milestone, supporting more than 100,000 sight-restoring eye surgeries across the Pacific.
That’s 100,000 more people who can see, work, go to school, or live more independently.
It is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when people work together and reflects the efforts of patients, local eye care teams, our partners, and supporters.
Globally, research shows that every dollar invested in eye health delivers a return of $28 in low and middle-income countries – and in Pacific contexts, the returns can be even higher.
That means 100,000 surgeries – delivered for as little as $25 each in some contexts – represents not just restored sight, but significant value retained through stronger workforce participation, productivity, and improved education outcomes.
Our founder and legendary Kiwi eye doctor, Professor Fred Hollows vision was for a world where no one is needlessly blind – he championed the right of all people to high-quality and affordable eye care.
He went where the need was greatest, created innovative ways to deliver surgery, and worked tirelessly to restore sight.
100,000 sight-restoring surgeries later, his vision lives on.
This achievement reflects Fred’s belief in practical action, local leadership, and long-term change — and the collective effort to carry it forward.
