Dear Friends and Supporters of the Eye Health Institute,
It is with deep sorrow that I write about the devastating news of the destruction caused by Hurricane Melissa. The most significant hurricane in Jamaica’s history struck the island on Tuesday, October 28 as a Category 5 storm with sustained winds of 185 mph and rainfall exceeding 30 inches in some regions. The Prime Minister has declared a national disaster as the island faces widespread displacement, infrastructure damage, and agricultural loss.
Current reports from our local partners on the ground confirm that:
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Power outages, downed communication lines, and shortages of food and clean water are widespread.
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Many residents of Hanover Parish remain without homes.
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Two of our three Eye Health Institute clinics have sustained significant damage, resulting in the loss of much of our medical equipment, supplies, and pharmaceuticals.
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Hospitals in Montego Bay, Lucea, Savannah la Mar, Black River, Falmouth, and Mandeville have sustained considerable damage.
Before the end of this year, a small advance team will return to Jamaica to assist with local relief efforts, begin restoring clinic operations, and provide basic medical support where possible. We are coordinating closely with our Jamaican colleagues and the Lucea Hospital to develop a structured recovery and rebuilding plan, and we will keep you informed as conditions evolve.
To help meet urgent needs, we have established a dedicated donation link below. Contributions will first go toward immediate relief for affected communities, with remaining funds directed toward rebuilding our clinics and replacing essential supplies.
🔗 Donate here via Square: https://square.link/u/u7X4Bi6e
or Donate Here via Colorado Gives
Through every hardship, the strength and spirit of Jamaica continue to shine. United in compassion and service, we are committed to helping restore hope and health to those who have lost so much.
With hope and gratitude,
Thank you for your continued support.
Respectfully,
Dr. Richard Cross, OD
Eye Health Institute
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