46 residents have received eye care from Lha Charitable Trust this year.
Two years ago, Lha began its “Clear Vision” program to provide free optometrist appointments and corrective lenses to residents of McLeod Ganj. The instigation of the program came from the refugee community, many of whom had complained of eye sight problems. At that time Lha provided 145 prescription glasses to those in need. The program came to an end when the funds were depleted.
However, Lha recently received a donation from a private donor, Miss Aubrey Lynne, which has allowed them to continue the Clear Vision program. Since September 2011 Lha has provided 46 residents with eye appointments at Delek Hospital. With the cooperation of an optician in Dharamsala, Lha was also able to purchase prescription glasses for 31 individuals who required them. Clients were able to choose their own frames from an affordable selection. Prescription eye drops were also provided if needed.
The participants for the program were both students at Lha, as well as members of the larger McLeod Ganj community. Lha also specifically approached a handicrafts cooperative, and provided the employees with eye care.
We hope to continue the Clear Vision program, dependent on funding, when the residents of McLeod Ganj return from the Kalachakra initiation in January 2012. We anticipate a resurgence of interest in the program, and appreciate any donations.
In a similar process to the eyeglass project, Lha has now commenced a Dental Assistance Project,
funded by a donation from Frances Phares of Louisiana.
Some Tibetan locals have never had the opportunity to have a dental examination or treatment for a dental problem due to a lack of public dental services. Refugee populations worldwide have been found to have a higher likelihood of poor oral health due to several factors:
- Poor nutrition and diet when traditional lifestyles are disrupted, during imprisonment, or while in transit.
- Torture related injuries to the mouth and face (including electric shock, removal of teeth). As a result survivors may experience intense fear of dental procedures.
- Disruption of regular health care due to forced geographical displacement
- The impact of prolonged anxiety including acid reflux, grinding.
- Reduced possibility of self-care (little or no access to toothbrushes, paste, clean water).
- Greater availability of low-cost high-sugar foods (including cola) in country of refuge.
‘Nutrition for Good Dental Health’ information sheets will also be available. Donations are welcome to enable this program to continue.
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