In 2015, our generous donors contributed almost $4 million to our work, giving the gift of sight to hundreds of thousands of children, women and men living in India and Africa. Today, I’d like to tell you about one special donor, Gwen Crowe.
Gwen, 85, has been a donor to Operation Eyesight for decades. She and her husband John have also designated Operation Eyesight as the beneficiary of a generous legacy gift in their wills. Gwen is eager to talk about that gift.
“I’m always telling people about ways to give,” she says. “With Operation Eyesight, you know your donation gets to others. Giving touches people so they can work and give and share with others, too.”
Over the years, Gwen and John have embraced a variety of ways to give, including garage sales, bake sales and bottle collecting. Whenever the couple raises any funds, they donate the money to Operation Eyesight.
“It’s a wonderful feeling inside, that you’re caring and sharing so others can see the beauty of creation,” says Gwen.
In 2000, Gwen accompanied Marilyn Gullison, daughter of our inspiration Dr. Ben Gullison, on a trip to India. She toured places like the slums of Mumbai and saw our partner Arogyavaram Eye Hospital. She said being able to see the impact of her many donations was “the best experience, and I’ll never forget it.”
Gwen wants everyone to know that they can make a difference, especially through a legacy gift. “Sharing is caring,” she says. “It’s wonderful to look back on your life and see that you gave back.”
We certainly know you care, Gwen! Thank you for your generosity!
Gwen’s story serves as a reminder that we all can make a difference, and that there are many ways to do so. Visit our website to learn how you support Operation Eyesight’s sight-saving work.