Jammu, Aug 25 (KNO): The Department of Ophthalmology, Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu, marked the launch of the 40th Eye Donation Fortnight with an awareness programme led by Dr. Ashok K. Sharma, Head of the Department.
The event aimed to educate the public on the importance of eye donation and encourage individuals to pledge their eyes for donation after death.
Observed every year from August 25 to September 8, Eye Donation Fortnight seeks to spread awareness about corneal blindness and highlight how eye donation can transform lives.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Ashok K. Sharma, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), underlined the urgent need for more donors. “Eye donation is a noble act that can restore sight to those who are visually impaired. One pair of donated eyes can give vision to two individuals and change their lives forever. We appeal to everyone to come forward and pledge their eyes for donation,” he said.
Dr. Sanjay Kai, Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, emphasized the moral responsibility of eye donation. “Thousands suffer daily from corneal diseases. By pledging our eyes, we can be part of a life-changing journey for those in need. It is one of the greatest gifts we can offer,” he noted.
Dr. Hans Raj, Professor and Managing Director of the Eye Bank at GMC Jammu, called eye donation a “legacy of compassion.” He added, “Each pledge can light up someone’s world and bring hope. As a community, we must work together to make eye donation a common practice.”
The programme concluded with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals signing pledge forms to donate their eyes. As part of the fortnight, the Department of Ophthalmology has lined up a series of activities to promote awareness and motivate more people to register as donors.
For further information or to pledge your eyes, individuals are encouraged to contact the Department of Ophthalmology, GMC Jammu—(KNO)