SAIL Central America, Inc. (SAIL) is a USA IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) company established in 2015. The purpose of SAIL is to save and improve lives for individuals in developing countries by building relationships with local resources to address local problems.
SAIL’s primary focus has evolved from various life-saving and life-improving projects to primarily providing funding for cataract surgeries for the people of Ecuador. Restoring the gift of vision is life-changing for two or three generations, particularly for Ecuadorians of all ages who may suffer from vision problems caused by cataracts.
Cataracts were selected because the surgery is safe, relatively painless, with minimal complications and modestly inexpensive at $200 US per patient, given the geography, yet it has a profound life-changing impact.
The surgeries are conducted by Fundacion Vista Para Todos (VPT), based in Quito, Ecuador. VPT possesses the surgical suite, eye care doctors, and all other necessary professionals, including surgical techs and pharmacists. Most importantly, VPT is driven by a commitment to serving God’s people. VPT travels all over Ecuador, providing wheelchairs, glasses, and primarily cataract surgeries, especially in Quito.
For reference, Ecuador is about the size of Nevada, covering 190,000 square miles, but critically, the elevation of Quito is 9,350 feet above sea level. The intensity of the sun at that elevation is the primary cause of widespread cataract damage.
The youngest patient, Sara, aged 6, was born with congenital cataracts. The oldest patient’s age is unknown but believed to be in her 80s.
As of May 1, 2024, through the generosity of friends and corporations, SAIL has funded 425 individuals, enabling them to regain their sight and significantly improving their quality of life.