An estimated 28,000 Cambodians become blind each year, about 19,000 because of cataract alone. Cataract in Cambodia accounts for 65% of blindness and 75% of visual impairment . While Cambodia suffers from inadequate health facilities and resources, it is unique in having a well coordinated national program which exists to help improve the health of its population and to prevent further blindness. Global Village-Kids is working in collaboration with the SEVA supported Battambang Ophthalmic Care Center (BOCC), which offers free sight-saving surgery, by offering transporation and lodging for mostly elderly women who live in rural villages.

The total experience includes a pre-surgical eye pre-exam, a 8-9 hour ride to the hospital in Battambang, 3 good meals a day, air conditioned lodging (a first for many), a free cataract operation at the Battambang Ophthalmological Care Center, a return trip for a post-surgical eye exam, another return trip for a checkup and care due to the infectious nature of their home surroundings, AND lots of laughs and smiles.

The total cost for the entire surgical trip which includes lodging, transportation and food is $2,400 for TWENTY people or only $120 to restore the sight of one person. The waiting list is long.