Story
Worldwide, 2.2 billion people have a visual impairment, but almost half of this is preventable or treatable. This year, through the 'Sprint for Sight' campaign we hope to transform the lives of impoverished communities in Pakistan by collaborating with the global charity Sightsavers. Their aim; to save people from a lifetime of blindness.
According to Sightsavers, blindness is a serious public health problem in Pakistan. Cataract is the leading cause, responsible for over 50% of cases. People living in poverty are particularly vulnerable to the impact of blindness, yet only a small proportion access treatment due to a lack of awareness about eye conditions, inadequate eye care in rural areas, and the high costs frequently involved. Sightsavers have been working in Pakistan since 1985 and have delivered over 1.6 million cataract surgeries.
Following on from the success of last year's half marathon fundraising campaign, this year, we have 16 runners training for the Richmond Park Half Marathon in June to raise funds for this incredible cause. A donation of just £31 will allow us to support Sightsavers to complete an entire cataract surgery for an individual in need.
For these communities in Pakistan, restoring sight is life-changing. It not only directly benefits the individual, allowing them to regain independence, but the impact is on the entire family as it restores the individual's ability to support their families.
In order to help cover our ever-increasing running costs, 10% of the money raised by our runners will go towards admin costs.