ORBIS International is a New York City based non-governmental humanitarian organization (NGO) dedicated to the prevention of eye disease and avoidable blindness. Best known for its “Flying Eye Hospital,” a fully-equipped DC-10 airplane with volunteer pilots, an ophthalmic hospital with operating room and international medical team; ORBIS has been flying to the developing world since 1982 providing much needed training to local ophthalmologists and free sight saving treatments and surgeries to those in need.
In addition to the Flying Eye Hospital, ORBIS has launched hospital-based country programs in Asia and Africa. These long term programs continue to provide year-long training for local eye doctors as well as create public awareness of eye disease in the local communities. Capacity building is the top priority for ORBIS in these regions, providing residents with quality eye care service that is affordable, accessible and sustainable.
During my trips with ORBIS to Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Myanmar, China and Vietnam; I had the opportunity to witness and document staff and volunteers, both on and off the plane, give a second chance at preventing eye disease and restoring sight. From the free distribution of Zithromax antibiotics in Ethiopia to eliminate trachoma disease, to the diagnosing and treatment of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in babies in Vietnam; people of all ages from around the world have benefited greatly from ORBIS’ work and the continued support from hosting governments and corporate sponsors such as Alcon Laboratories, United Airlines, FedEx and Pfizer amongst others.
Seeing first hand how the generosity of ORBIS has given people an opportunity to carry on with their livelihoods from improved eyesight, has been a fantastic experience to document.
