Bangkok, Thailand :: Doulos Hope partnered locally to serve people through free eye exams and distribution of glasses.
In Bangkok, Doulos Hope worked alongside local communities to help improve sight and share hope. For many, this was their first chance to receive free eyesight testing and glasses, a gift that changes daily life.
Among those impacted was Thammae Sejong, a member of the Department of Health and Welfare at Bangkok University. Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, she shared, “Many of them could not afford glasses before and now they have the chance to be tested and receive them for free. I feel very happy because I have never had any organisation take care of people like this before. Thank you.”
She summed it up simply. “It’s not just about the glasses,” she explained. “It’s about knowing someone cares.”
During this visit, several teams of crew from the ship were involved in eyesight testing and distributing glasses to those in need. Together, they distributed more than 200 pairs of glasses, including over 150 pairs of reading glasses and more than 60 pairs of distance glasses, along with additional donations of glasses through community service. For individuals who had struggled to read, work or simply see clearly, this gift opened doors to confidence and independence.
The impact rippled through communities. One elderly man was so thrilled with his new glasses that he began inviting everyone in his neighbourhood to come and get tested. His joy was unmistakable. “I can see clearly now. Before, everything was blurry and I could not read or recognise faces. I want everyone to have this chance because it changes everything,” he said.
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