EYE DONATION

Eye Donation – The Gift of Sight

Blindness remains a major public health concern in India, and corneal blindness is one of the important causes of avoidable vision loss. Corneal transplantation can restore sight to many people, but this is possible only when healthy corneas are made available through eye donation.

What is the Cornea?

The cornea is the transparent, dome-shaped front surface of the eye. It acts as a protective window and allows light to enter the eye. A clear and healthy cornea is essential for good vision.

What is Corneal Blindness?

Corneal blindness occurs when the cornea becomes cloudy, scarred or damaged, preventing light from entering the eye properly. Some common causes include:

  • Eye injuries or trauma
  • Infections of the cornea
  • Vitamin A deficiency
  • Congenital conditions
  • Complications following certain eye diseases

How is Corneal Blindness Treated?

In suitable cases, corneal blindness can be treated through a corneal transplant. During this procedure, the damaged or diseased cornea is replaced with healthy donor corneal tissue.

Every corneal transplant begins with an eye donation.

What is Eye Donation?

Eye donation is the voluntary donation of a person’s corneas after death, with the consent of the family. The donated corneas are evaluated and, when suitable, used to help restore vision in people suffering from corneal blindness.

Why Should You Donate Your Eyes?

A simple decision made today can give someone the precious gift of sight tomorrow.

One eye donation can potentially help restore vision in two people with corneal blindness.

By pledging your eyes, you can leave behind a lasting legacy of compassion and hope.

Eye Donation Facts

  • Eye donation can take place only after death.
  • Consent of the family is required at the time of donation.
  • The procedure for retrieving the corneas is generally completed within 15–20 minutes.
  • Eye donation does not disfigure the face of the deceased.
  • Eye donation should ideally be arranged as soon as possible after death, generally within six hours.
  • A person can donate their eyes even if they had not formally pledged during their lifetime, provided the family gives consent.
  • The entire process is carried out respectfully, keeping the sentiments of the bereaved family in mind.
  • Donated corneas are not bought or sold.
  • Medical suitability of the donor is assessed by the eye bank/medical team before transplantation.

How Can You Help?

Pledge Your Eyes

Make a commitment to donate your eyes after your death and discuss your decision with your family so that they are aware of your wishes.

Spread the Message

Talk to your family, friends, colleagues and community about eye donation. Encourage others to take the pledge and help create awareness about the importance of corneal donation.

Nirmal Ashram Eye Institute

Nirmal Ashram Eye Institute (NEI), Rishikesh, is committed to creating awareness about eye donation and helping restore vision through corneal transplantation.

Your eyes can bring light to someone else’s world.
Donate eyes. Gift the precious gift of sight.

CLICK HERE TO PLEDGE YOUR EYES

OR SCAN THE QR CODE TO PLEDGE