Thanks to Thomas for sharing details of this fundraising effort by local optometrist Pritti Patel. Ed
An optometrist is looking to raise more than £1,000 following a spoke-tacular fundraiser for global sight charity, Vision Aid Overseas (VAO).
Specsavers Newport optician, Pritti Patel, completed a 100km cycle around the Isle of Wight on Monday 16 April. She was supported by local cycling team, the Wayfarers, as well as a team of volunteers, collecting donations on her behalf.
Keen to hit fundraising target
Pritti says, “Before I set off I felt a mix of nerves and excitement as I’ve never done anything like this before. I’m really pleased with the funds we’ve raised so far and would be ecstatic if we can hit our fundraising target.”
The sponsored cycle is the latest activity in Pritti’s on-going support for VAO. She has previously visited Zambia and Uganda on behalf of the charity and at the end of April she will be volunteering in Ethiopia to carry out eye examinations and dispense glasses as well as training healthcare workers in areas without access to quality eyecare.
Specsavers stores have raised more £250,000 to improve eyecare in Zambia. This has funded the construction of vision centres and training facilities to produce optometrists and eyecare specialists, in Kabawe, Mansa and very recently, Lusaka.
If you would like to contribute to Pritti’s fundraising effort, pop into Specsavers in Newport.
