Chuck Yeager

Today I worked in an eye clinic with Chuck Yeager!  Of course, I didn't know it was him until later.  Oh well.

For the past two days we ran a free clinic in the loca

l school for the children and anyone else from the colonia who showed up.  We posted a sign on the fence of the school and waited to see who would show up.  Over the two days, 100 people came for eye tests, not including the students in the school.  It was basic vision testing and we gave out free reading glasses.  For those who had more serious eye problems, a referral was written out to send them to the free clinic in the center of town run by the Lions Club.  

Today I photographed at that clinic, where Chuck was volunteering.  The Lions Club is only open one day per week for about two hours, but a local eye doctor volunteers his services during that time.  Patients can be tested for more serious vision problems and they will be provided with prescription glasses.  If they are under 18 or a student, the glasses are free.  Others are asked to make a donation.

Prior to testing the vision of the adults, however, the Lions test them for diabetes.  There is a 20% diabetes rate in the cities in Mexico!  Did you know the CocaCola here is higher in sugar?!?  Yep!  So, if they test positive for diabetes, they have to maintain a certain blood sugar level for a period of time before they will be given a prescription.  The percentage of diabetes in the rural areas of Mexico is less than five...hmmmm...

I spoke with the woman who is redesigning the website for the Lions Club Eye Clinic about sharing some of my photos with them.  What I wanted to know from her was what is the message the Lion's 

would like to tell with photos on their website.  She said:

"It's all about the children!"