Personal message

My name is Pitso Litheko, a 41-year-old father of two from South Africa. I've faced a lifelong struggle with my vision due to conditions called strabismus and keratosis, both progressively affecting my sight. Wearing thick-lensed glasses caused headaches and hindered my activities, even forcing me to give up sports I loved due to the risk of misinterpretation and injury.

Despite managing well academically, these conditions impacted my jobs, leading to stock inaccuracies and reduced productivity. I've sought solutions through extensive research, clinics, and hard lenses, but unfortunately, my cornea's ballooning and worsening strabismus have left me with limited options.

The impact on my life extends beyond work—I've been unable to obtain a driver's license or engage in physical labor. The doctors have offered a solution through surgery to address both conditions, giving me hope for a better quality of life.

I sustain myself by growing and selling a variety of vegetables, spending most days outdoors, shielded by sunglasses. I've found a solution to my eye condition but lack the funds required for the surgeries and post-operative care, totaling R150,000 (approximately $9,000).

I'm reaching out in the hope that someone, somewhere, might help change not just my life but also the future for my children and our community. Your support could make a profound difference, allowing me to regain independence, work more effectively, and contribute positively to my family and neighborhood.

Thank you for considering my plea and being a beacon of hope in my journey toward better vision and a brighter future.

Warm regards, Pitso Litheko