The SEE Project

The Theosophical Order of Service, Chennai Region, India, has initiated a new project, extending the range of medical support its members already provide to disadvantaged people in their area.

The SEE (Seeing Eyes for Everyone) Project was launched in September 2007 to mark the 150th birth anniversary of eminent Theosophist, Damodar K. Mavalankar. A logo for the project was designed by a TS member from Spain, Silvia Sanchez Ortega. 

So far, screening for vision impairment has been carried out in five schools and two slum areas, with approximately 4300 school children and 396 slum dwellers examined. This screening identified 191 school children and 128 slum dwellers whose vision could be corrected with spectacles and these were provided free of charge. Seven slum dwellers were operated on for cataract removal, again at no cost to themselves. More recently, about 75 workers on the Theosophical Society’s Adyar Estate were screened as well as a number of orphans from the area.

How does the SEE Project work?
It is a collaboration between the TOS and the Udhi Eye Hospitals in Chennai, which provides highly subsidised medical care. The TOS in Chennai identifies deserving cases and institutions. Their member-volunteers make the non-medical arrangements and the Udhi Eye Hospitals send professionals to do the screening. If further treatment or glasses are required, the children and adults are sent to the hospital.

How can we help?
The TOS nominates an approximate amount it can donate. It receives the bill and pays the hospital directly by electronic transfer. Costs are minimal because of the Udhi Hospitals’ generosity. The concessional cost for spectacles is Rs 200 (approx. A$6) and for cataract surgery, RS 1,000 (approx.A$30) per eye.

As Mr C.V.K. Maithreya, President of the TOS in Chennai, says, ‘The need is great and our seemingly large efforts cover but a few of the millions in India who need help. Therefore we need to keep going at the best pace possible. It is the support of generous donors that has made this a viable project.  It is moving to see the difference that improved sight makes to the lives of those it is our privilege to assist.’ 

If you’d like to help, contact the TOS in Australia by email at: tos.australia@gmail.com