Organisation: Cure Blindness Project
Location: United States

As a graphic designer, 27-year-old Michael Ankomanyi creates visual elements to delight the senses. Losing his sight meant not only losing his livelihood but also his identity as an artist. “The eye is the window to the body. It sees everything and transmits information to the brain. If you can’t see, then you are lacking.” Michael needed help. “I have experienced very dark moments; I lost all hope. For days, I would sit in my room and cry. I never imagined regaining my sight again.” He learned of a Cure Blindness Project outreach that provided free sight-restoring cataract surgeries. The NGO has an extensive network of partners in Ghana. Michael knew he had to go. “I was initially scared of the surgical procedure, but I needed to conquer my fears or live in darkness forever. As a young man, the thoughts of being unable to make a living and move about by myself were even scarier.” Again able to see, Michael is able to create. “I want to thank Cure Blindness Project for providing these life-changing interventions. For me, hope is restored!”