See Beyond Yourself: Eye Donation Month Highlights Powerful Stories of Sight, Hope and Generosity

In recognition of Eye Donation Month this November, Tennessee Donor Services (TDS) and Sierra Donor Services Eye Bank (SDSEB) are sharing the message “See Beyond Yourself,” a national campaign celebrating the life-changing impact of corneal transplantation.

The month-long observance honors eye donors, donor families, recipients, and healthcare professionals whose lives are connected through the gift of sight.

Nearly 12 million people worldwide suffer from corneal blindness that may be treated through transplantation. Eye Donation Month raises awareness of the importance of eye donation and encourages individuals to register as organ, eye and tissue donors. One donor can create a lasting legacy of hope by restoring sight and improving quality of life for others.

Tennessee Donor Services and Sierra Donor Services Eye Bank invite our community to “See Beyond Yourself” by registering as an organ, eye, and tissue donor to provide the life-changing gift of sight.

Eye Bank Breakdown

Behind every number is a life changed, a vision restored, and an impact made possible through cornea donation.

Facts about Cornea Disease and Eye Donation:

• Around 12 million people worldwide suffer from corneal blindness that could be restored through a cornea transplant.
• A cornea transplant helps individuals avoid the direct and indirect costs of vision loss, including ongoing medical expenses, long-term care, and loss of productivity for both patients and caregivers.
• Eye diseases rank as the fifth most costly health issue in the U.S., following heart disease, cancer, mental health disorders, and pulmonary conditions.
• Corneal transplants have a success rate of over 95%.

Honoring Cornea Donors and Recipients:

“My donor transformed my life. I will always be grateful for the gift I received.”

— Joe Dutra, cornea recipient (pictured right)

Make the gift of sight possible for others like Joe.

Sign up to be an organ, eye and tissue donor at donatelifetn.org.