Strabismus Training Project to Light Up Kids’ Lives Concludes in Zambia

Working in partnership with long-term eye care partner University Teaching Hospital (UTH) Eye Hospital, Orbis Volunteer Faculty worked side-by-side with local eye health professionals to boost their skills and confidence to address complex cases of strabismus, a leading cause of childhood blindness in children.

From screening to surgery, ophthalmologists and anesthesiologists alike benefitted from world-class training funded by Orbis partners and supporters. Renowned pediatric expert Dr. Dan Neely and anesthesiologist Dr. Simon Courtman teamed up with local eye care partner Dr. Chimodzi Tembo, a Zambian pediatric ophthalmologist, and some of his colleagues at UTH Eye Hospital.

Gallery: Hospital training in action

Dr. Neely, a Senior Medical Consultant for Orbis Cybersight and Professor of Ophthalmology at Indiana University School of Medicine, shared his skills and expertise in treating strabismus in children. Meanwhile, Dr. Courtman ensured the safety and well-being of the young patients undergoing surgery through his unparalleled anesthesiology expertise.

David and Molly Pyott, long-time Orbis supporters and advocates for global eye care programs also attended the session witnessing the impact of their kindness. The pair have played a critical role in developing eye health training projects like this one and transforming lives in Zambia.

Strabismus is a common childhood eye condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. The condition often causes one or both eyes to look in different directions, affecting self-image and confidence. Our own research shows that children with uncorrected strabismus are more likely to have depression and anxiety due to social and educational disruption they face.

The training will lead to improved surgical outcomes and give long-lasting hope to children whose lives are impacted by the condition, especially in a country where quality eye care is limited. By building local expertise, the project will ensure a lasting legacy of improved eye care.

An enormous thank you to our generous supporters, The Pyotts, and to Orbis Volunteer Faculty who give up their free time and energy to improve access to eye care. We would also like to thank our eye care partners in Zambia whose hard work and dedication is transforming lives across the country.