Nine-year-old Esther Peter lives in Njia Panda Himo village. Her mother first noticed vision problems when Esther was about 18 months old- she would hold objects very close to her face to see them. A lack of awareness about the causes of vision loss in children led to delay in seeking care. Later, at school, teachers seated her directly in front of the blackboard so she could read what was written.

In 2020, the family sought treatment at Kolandoto Hospital and was referred to the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (where KCCO is based). Doctors diagnosed bilateral cataracts requiring surgery. The procedures were successful, and Esther’s vision began to improve.

As part of recent follow-up appointments in 2025, the clinical team determined that Esther needed corrective lenses for both reading and distance vision. She now wears glasses that enable her to see clearly and participate fully in school.

Esther’s mother acknowledges that earlier intervention could have prevented many of the challenges they faced. Esther had to interrupt her education to receive care.

“If we had sought help earlier, Esther wouldn’t have faced these difficulties,” she explains. “Parents need to act when they notice a child struggling to see distant objects or holding things very close. Early examination is important.”

Esther has returned to school with restored vision. She aspires to become a model—a goal she can now pursue with confidence.
KCCO works to prevent cases like Esther’s from becoming urgent crises. Through community screening programs and health education initiatives, we identify and manage eye conditions early—before children miss school or families face difficult treatment journeys. Your support enables this proactive approach to be scaled up to more geographic areas.