Seven children affected by the Chernobyl disaster were invited to attend our Optical Express Maidstone clinic, to receive free eye tests and spectacles.
The children, who travelled from Belarus, are currently staying with families in Maidstone as part of a four-week recuperative break, so they can enjoy local activities and attend medical appointments to which they currently have limited access.
The visit, facilitated by Manager, Marie Chapman- in partnership with the charity Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline, included a comprehensive eye test conducted by Senior Optometrist Clive Burr, who has been working for Optical Express for over 20 years. The children were also treated to delicious cakes from a local bakery, and each received a special goody bag.
Following the disaster in 1986, Belarus received over 70% of the radioactive fallout and the emissions continue to affect the children born.
Gwen Wood, a spokesperson at Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Optical Express for another year, to help the children who potentially suffer from medical illnesses and vision impairments as a result of this fallout. It is important every child has the right to healthcareand this continued support will make a huge difference to the children’s lives.”
Marie said: “This will be the fourth year Optical Express has supported Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline’s fantastic cause. We want every child to feel valued and cared for, and we look forward to our ongoing work with the charity.
