Share Ngombo's Story and Help Stop Blindness

On July 4th, 2015, a 7-year old girl named Ngombo Mervediy was one of hundreds who arrived at the SEE clinic in Kinshasa with hopes of having perfect vision for the first time. It was not a moment too soon.

Ngombo was born with a cataract in her right eye, and it was growing. She was struggling to keep up in the classroom, because she couldn't see the chalkboard or read her books. Ngombo's classmates teased her for her white eye. Despite these challenges, she liked to go to school and learn.

Fortunately, SEE ophthalmologist Dr. Helena Ndume was there to treat her, and the surgery was a success. Now Ngombo is back in school, where she can learn and play with her classmates.

Blindness is an underlying cause of poverty and hunger in developing countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that of the world's 39 million blind people: 90% live in developing countries, 80% of the cases are avoidable or treatable, and 48% – just like Ngombo, are blind because of cataracts.

That's why SEE International supports more than 600 medical professionals who want to make a difference in the world by volunteering to treat blindness in developing countries. Together, we've restored the sight of nearly half a million people worldwide.

Will you help a young child like Ngombo who is affected by blindness? Take the pledge to share her story, and help raise awareness about blindness and SEE International's work to restore sight and transform lives.