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| Randy Smart performing lensometry |
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| Dr. Eric Smart from Dawson Creek BC, trial framing a patient |
Here are we are, in
the last days of this project. I can feel that things are starting to wind
down, although there is still work to be done. Our inventory is getting
depleted ; that is good. There are fewer boxes to pack and carry ; that is also
good. There have been ,I trust, many life changing moments. The -27D
young lady who had never worn glasses before, and watching Robert create a
functional pair of specs for her. The reserved smile of 9 year old Harvey
who came to us with 20/160 vision having never worn glasses, and leaving with
better than 20/60 acuity. Elconeda ,58,who has been without glasses since
typhoon Haiyan receiving a pair of -8/-9 D glasses that gave her renewed hope.
Sharing the work and some laughs with our young assistants like Romeo, who is a
college student studying environmental science and dreams of joining NASA. If
there has been a "life changing moment" on this trip for me, perhaps
it was on the bus ride back to the hotel when I realized that the overwhelming
emotion I am getting from this journey is not one of sadness, but of hope and
inspiration. The people I have met here in the Philippines are still able to
smile, experience joy , care for and help one another despite their circumstances.
I saw a picture of a sign that read "Homeless,roofless, not
hopeless". This trip has, in some sense, broken this life down to a simple
truth. It feels good to be cared for, and to provide care. It feels good to
love and be loved. At this time of year when the people of the Philippines are
decorating for Christmas I am reminded of the importance of "faith, hope
and love". Thanks to all the members of our team for your tireless
efforts, and thanks to those following our journey on the blog and on Facebook
pages for your kind support.
Blessings to all,
Randy Smart
Doug & Sharyn, the VA couple
It’s time to say farewell to the Phillipines and TWECS 2015. Thank you to the helpers and Sisters of Mary Immaculate for your unwavering support to make the project a success. To my TWECS team mates I have appreciated your humor, smiles, support and help in every way possible.
To the Phillipine people – you have shown me the endless possibilities of love, friendship and a strong faith to overcome a tragedy the magnitude of Haiyan.
Salamat! Sharyn Higginson Mill Bay BC
DR. HELEN LIM, MEMPHIS TENNESSEE
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