Eye testing, Deir Al Balah
Outreach team, West Bank
Gaza Hospital damage
Child screening programme
Khan Younis refugee camp
Christmas is a season of spirituality and reflection and despite the many challenges we faced this year, there is so much to be proud of at the St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital Group (SJEHG).
As 2024 draws to a close, I am pleased to share that we have treated over 160,000 patients, including more than 25,000 patients in the Gaza region. Across six locations in the Strip, our dedicated teams continue to deliver basic care and life-changing treatments to those in need.
I am full of admiration for the unwavering commitment of our staff who, against considerable odds, bring hope and healing to patients every day. Their work is a true reflection of human strength and resilience. Your steadfast support reminds them they are not alone, and this encouragement makes all the difference in the face of such adversity.
We are profoundly grateful for the generosity of our global family, including the wider St John community, the Guild of SJEHG, our trusts and foundations, and individual donors. Your donations sustain our mission, and while (happily) the list of those who have contributed is too extensive to name, each contribution makes a lasting impact.
Looking to 2025, we are focused on renewal and rebuilding. In Gaza, we remain committed to re-establishing permanent services and developing infrastructure to support long-term patient care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and follow-up services.
Our child screening programme will continue to grow across the West Bank and Jerusalem, allowing us to detect and treat preventable blindness in the younger population. We are also excited about the upcoming opening of our new Day Hospital in Nablus, a significant milestone in our mission to provide accessible, high-quality eye care.
In London, preparations are well underway for the Saving Sight Gala Dinner on February 5th, where we will celebrate our collective mission to restore sight and hope in the Holy Land.
I also wish to extend my gratitude to all our staff at SJEHG for their selfless dedication and to our CEO, Dr Ahmad Ma’ali and his management team for their excellent leadership during this challenging year. Their guidance has been crucial in navigating these turbulent times.
As we celebrate this Christmas, I invite you to reflect on the incredible impact we have made together in the service of humanity. However, there is so much more to do. Please consider supporting our Saving Sight in Gaza Appeal to ensure we can continue delivering vital care to those who need it most.
On behalf of the SJEHG Board of Trustees, can I wish you and your family a joyful and peaceful Christmas. Thank you for all your support as always and together we will continue our mission to combat avoidable blindness and build a brighter future for all.
With best wishes,
Andrew Cash
Chair SJEHG