As part of the "Preventable Blindness for a Bright Life" Project, the Love and Health Truck was established in the earthquake-stricken areas
This project was implemented by Muş Alparslan University's Varto Vocational School, Medical Services and Techniques Department, in collaboration with Muş Governorate, Muş Municipality, Üsküdar University, and the Turkish Red Crescent Muş Branch. Children between the ages of 7 and 13, residing in the container cities in the earthquake zone, underwent eye screenings in the van.
Dr. Nevin Turan Özek, the Director of Varto Vocational School, mentioned that similar screenings were previously conducted in Muş province and its villages, leading to the successful treatment of many children. She further stated, "We aimed to reach children affected by the devastating earthquakes that occurred on February 6 in Kahramanmaraş and touched their hearts by enhancing our project with our partners. Through the screenings, we reached over 5,000 children and facilitated their referrals to the necessary places. I sincerely thank our esteemed Rector, Prof. Dr. Mustafa Alican, and everyone involved in the project."
Dr. Mehmet Uçar, the head of the Medical Services and Techniques Department and a researcher in the project, stated that they closely monitor the field and training activities. They are ready to go anywhere needed with strong stakeholders, young opticians, volunteer physicians, healthcare workers, and Red Crescent teams. He emphasized that children in the earthquake-affected areas of 11 provinces are in a disadvantaged situation. Early detection and treatment of preventable blindness through public health screenings have contributed significantly. Their goal is to bring meaningful touches to the lives of happy children with good vision.
Aykut Çağlı, an instructor in the Opticianry program and the project coordinator, mentioned that eye examinations were conducted for children between the ages of 7 and 13. Children with eye diseases were referred to relevant healthcare institutions for further treatment.
During the project, which took place between July 14 and July 26 in earthquake-stricken areas, a significant number of children underwent eye screenings.
