Journey to Sight and Independence

The Child

Vitalis story

A Nine-year-old Vitalis Masebo, a Standard One pupil from Mapinduzi Primary School in Tunduma, lives with his grandparents after losing his parents at age five. He was born with bilateral cataracts, which severely limited his vision. Because his family lacked money for specialized care, Vitalis struggled in school. Teachers often told his grandfather that he could not read or write well. His younger brother even performed better than him in academic following his eyes problem. Vitalis also faced other health issues, and his grandfather sought help from hospitals and traditional healers, unaware of existence of easily found children’s eye services. Their breakthrough came when they learned about Organization for Strategic Health Intervention (OSHI- oshi.or.tz). An Ophthalmologist confirmed cataracts in both eyes. Through support from SEVA Foundation and Ulverscroft UK Vitalis was referred to Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital for treatment. He came from Tunduma Town Council Hospital (One of OSHI’s intervention health facilities). At the community Vitalis was diagnosed with bilateral cataract during Helen Keller Foundation (adults eye care partners in Songwe Region) outreach program-House to House Program. On 11 November 2025, OSHI facilitated successful bilateral cataract surgery. Vitalis’ sight was restored, and he quickly began recognizing objects and walking confidently on his own. His grandfather is overjoyed: Vitalis can now manage daily tasks independently and no longer needs constant assistance. The grandpa expresses deep gratitude to the medical team and to OSHI, saying he has nothing to offer but thanks to God and all who supported his grandson’s healing. Currently Vitalis is in need of spectacles to ensure quality outcome of his surgery. The funding from Ulverscroft UK has been of great value to helping him get specs. Despite his poor socio-economic status Vitalis grandfather now has a responsibility of making sure that Vitalis goes for follow up from Tunduma where they live to Mbeya Zonal referral Hospital as directed by an Ophthalmologist (about 106 Kilometers) after a week. After a month, after six months then annually. The grandpa needs resources to enable him maintain follow up and ensure quality outcome of surgery.