DOTHAN, Alabama (WTVY) – Eye Center South in Dothan sees firsthand how disabilities can impact our daily lives.
They have a special program to help those in need.
Kimberly Veal was one of those people.
Veal has worn glasses her entire life and the last few years have been challenging.
“It’s difficult to do everyday things like preparing a meal, doing laundry or even taking care of our pets,” Veal said.
She remembered kayaking trips with her family. These precious memories have a place in her heart, along with the memory of not being able to enjoy those times in peace.
This is about quality of life and there were several options to improve it. One of them was cataract surgery, but that also presented another challenge.
The operation cost about $3,000.
Thousands of dollars that Veal was missing because her husband was recovering from a heart problem that had led to his retirement.
“When he had to retire, everything was gone. We could no longer afford the insurance, even the savings we had,” Veal said.
And that’s where her rescue came into play.
“The Gift of Sight program has been around for 30 years,” says Dr. Sebastian Heersink. “It’s a great way to help patients who otherwise couldn’t afford it.”
To be considered for the program, several requirements must be met.
Veal met them all by chance and was chosen; a moment she had long prayed for.
Dr. Heersink met with Veal twice, once in June for the initial appointment and in August on the day of surgery.
The operation was quick and successful.
Veal was beaming from ear to ear, overjoyed that he was on the road to better vision.
The program not only gave her the gift of sight, but also gave her another chance to enjoy life.
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