Audrey Wilson, 88, first learned about Operation Eyesight from an uncle who attended a talk given by Dr. Ben Gullison, whose work in Sompeta, India inspired Art Jenkyns to start our organization in 1963.
“Nearly six decades ago, that meeting planted seeds that have grown into a lifetime of giving,” Audrey recalls. “It was one of the first charities I gave to, and I still give today.”
Audrey’s passion for supporting our mission eventually led her to travel to India in 2000 with Dr. Gullison's daughter, Marilyn Gullison, who had spent much of her childhood in Sompeta.
“We travelled across the country in what looked like a school bus to many different hospitals and surgical camps where Operation Eyesight’s work was in action,” Audrey says. “We saw patients being picked up and transported to their procedures and even observed a cataract surgery.”
Audrey says the journey to India left a lasting impact on her.
“Great compassion and commitment was shown by all,” she says. “Operation Eyesight is still doing great work, and that’s why I continue to give.”
Learn more about Operation Eyesight's history here.
Thank you for your incredible support, Audrey!