Dr Sanduk Ruit: The visionary surgeon
From a remote village in Nepal to the world stage, Dr Sanduk Ruit is a true pioneer in eye care. Known as the “barefoot surgeon,” he developed a revolutionary cataract surgery technique that can be performed in under five minutes—restoring sight to thousands every year.
A close friend and mentee of Fred Hollows, Dr Ruit co-founded the Nepal Eye Program and the Tilganga Eye Centre, bringing affordable, high-quality eye care to some of the world’s poorest communities. His work has helped millions see again, proving that simple, cost-effective solutions can change lives.
Fred Hollows and Dr Ruit challenged the ophthalmic world
Mark Maina: The storyteller
Mark Maina believes in the power of storytelling to change lives. As our Global Communications Advisor in Kenya, he captures the raw, emotional moments of sight restoration—helping the world see the impact of our work.
Starting as a receptionist with a passion for photography, Mark worked his way into the field, where he now shares stories of hope and transformation from across Africa. His lens has brought the faces of patients, doctors, and families to the world, reminding us all why this work matters.
Watch Mark meet Manyeso—a blind single mother
Michael Amendolia: The eye behind the lens
For over 30 years, Michael Amendolia has documented the journey of The Fred Hollows Foundation. From Fred’s early days in the Outback to sight-restoring surgeries in the world’s most remote communities, his images capture the joy, resilience, and transformation that comes with restored sight.
Michael’s photographs have become an essential part of our story—bringing supporters closer to the impact of their generosity. His work is a powerful reminder that seeing the world through a new lens can change everything.
Dr Ciku Njuguna: A leader in eye health in Africa
Dr Ciku Njuguna is shaping the future of eye care in Africa. As the first female ophthalmologist trained by The Fred Hollows Foundation in the region, she has restored sight to thousands and is helping to build a stronger, more sustainable eye health system.
Guided by The Foundation’s medical experts, Dr Ciku mastered a groundbreaking cataract surgery technique that makes sight-saving treatment more accessible. Her work is not only giving people back their vision—it’s ensuring that eye care in Africa continues to grow and reach more people in need.
Eric could have been blind forever, until Dr Ciku stepped in
Tran Van Giáp: A life changed by Fred’s vision
When Giáp was seven, an accident left him blind in one eye. His family searched desperately for help, but doctor after doctor told them there was nothing they could do. Then, in a crowded hospital courtyard in Hanoi, his father spotted a kind foreign doctor—Fred Hollows.
Fred examined Giáp’s eyes and gave him hope. Days later, with the help of Dr Sanduk Ruit, Fred performed a sight-restoring surgery that changed Giáp’s life forever.
That moment inspired Giáp to work hard and give back. He became the first in his family to attend university and is now a maths teacher, shaping young minds and paying Fred’s kindness forward.
Fred’s impact lives on in people like Giáp—proof that restoring sight changes lives for generations to come.
Watch Gabi Hollows visit Giáp in Vietnam, 25 years after his sight was saved by Fred
