From Mr M. Fenech

When we talk about gifts, besides the material possessions we have, most people speak about the talents they have developed since they were born. We see these talents, such as the ability to speak many languages, the ability to practise a sport or excel in athletics or the arts, as god-given gifts. But how many of us appreciate or even begin to think about the gift of sight?

Sight is not only a gift, it is a miracle all of us should cherish for the simple reason that not everyone is born with such a gift and those who do could lose it. It is sight that helps us live a more comfortable life and enjoy the life we lead. However, this gift, this miracle from above, may be impaired or lost due to a number of reasons. One reason behind such impaired vision, or the potential loss of it, is damage or loss of function of a certain part of the eye called the cornea. With modern day technology available and improved operative techniques, this problem is easily solved from a technical point of view with a corneal transplant.

However, such corneas are not easy to come by. In fact, in Malta, like in any other country for that matter, there is a need of corneal tissue. The solution is simple, but one that needs the cooperation and responsibility of the citizens. Be a donor. At the Eye Bank Unit, currently situated in the Day Care Centre of Mater Dei Hospital, one can easily donate his or her tissue. While it may appear to involve just a simple signature and the filling in of a form, one should fully understand what he or she is doing. Besides accepting to donate the needed tissue in question, one has accepted to help others in need after he or she has passed away. If one accepts to be a donor, he or she will have a living legacy and would have changed the life of that person in need.

Sight is a gift that should not be wasted. So be a donor and be the miracle.

Matthew Fenech

6th Form Student

St Aloysius College

BIRKIRKARA