Dear VHP family and friends,
For the first time since the start of the VHP’s eye mission adventure in 1995, we could not run the 2021 mission to the DR, due to Covid. Our patients have now waited 2 years for the chance to receive eye care.
This year also found us having to say a sad good-by to our co- founder, Dr. Robert Della Rocca, who passed in February of 2021. He was a beloved leader and strong influence in developing the mission we have today. The outpouring of love and testimonies to this man’s greatness was a tremendous comfort during a very challenging time.
As the situation with the virus has improved, we are trilled to announce that there will be a VHP eye mission March 4-11, 2023. It is very exciting that most of the core group of volunteers have signed up for Mission. Our cataract team will be joined by several new surgeons and technicians. A second optometrist will be joining our screening and eyeglass distribution team. Mission 2023 will also provide Ocular Plastics surgeries thanks to Dr. David Della Rocca and Darlene Della Rocca.
Our host, ILAC and Dominican Republic has done a great job of vaccinating its population against Covid. All patients coming into the mission will have been vaccinated and carefully screened. We are asking that all our volunteers be vaccinated to participate in the mission as well.
Currently, the Mission Coordination Team is working diligently to gather all the medical /surgical supplies needed. Next will be the packing of supplies in boxes to send off the container to the DR. We are also gathering documents from our Volunteers that are required by the Dominican authorities.
We are looking forward to the launch of this mission and wish all the members of our extended VHP family and all those that help us do what we do, a delicious and heartwarming Thanksgiving!
Blessings to all,
Darlene Della Rocca and the VHP Board.