Opticians return from 'rewarding' charity mission

Luke Fleming and Sophie Withers in Rwanda

Reporter:

Marc Astley

05 Jun 2024 7:33 AM

The owners of Acuitis Opticians and Hearing Centre in Exeter, have been in Rwanda where they have been working with Fondation Héron, a charity that delivers eye care and hearing services to rural African communities.

During their visit Luke Fleming and Sophie Withers completed eye examinations for more than 7000 children in eight different primary schools.

“This has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life,” Optometrist Sophie said.

“The poverty is difficult to witness but the children are so full of joy and are so grateful to see you. It really reminded me why I chose my job in the first place, and that was to help those most in need.

"Being able to fit spectacles and watch children discover the world for the first time was magical. We were also able to arrange free transfer and hospital treatment for any children where we detected an eye disease.”

Retail director Luke agreed.

He said: “The experience really puts things into perspective and is a reminder as to how lucky we are. The children we visited had so little but were so happy to share what they had.

"My favourite memory from the trip is running around on the football pitch with the kids at lunchtime, where hundreds of children were chasing a single home made football, constructed with bags and string. The screams of joy and laughter were a reminder that kids are just kids no matter what continent you are on, and they all deserve the same level of care.

“We have both fallen in love with the beautiful scenery of Rwanda and the even more beautiful people and hope we can return for another mission with the Fondation Héron in the future.”

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