Stories > A second chance for Rodgers.

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” – John 8:12

Rodgers has always been determined.

Growing up in Zimbabwe, he contracted polio at a young age, leaving him with a lifelong physical disability. But that never stopped him from finding a way forward. Over the years, he learned to adapt – even building his own wheelchair from spare parts so he could move around independently.

“I went to a welder, who put the other wheel on, so I could get around without help,” he said.

With resilience and creativity, Rodgers built a small business mending clothes and shoes. It was more than just a livelihood – it was his way of contributing to his family and maintaining his independence.

But then, something changed.

Gradually, Rodgers’ vision began to fade.

At first, it was just a blur. Then it worsened, until one eye became completely blocked by a cataract. Tasks that once came naturally became increasingly difficult.

“It was affecting my work… I couldn’t see clearly to work with the needle,” he explained.

For Rodgers and his family, the impact was immediate. Without his income, the entire household felt the strain. In communities where resources are already limited, the loss of even one person’s ability to work can push a family deeper into poverty.

Yet the solution – cataract surgery – was far beyond what Rodgers could afford.

For a time, all he and his family could do was hope and pray.

Then, something remarkable happened.

Through the support of generous people like you, a cbm-funded partner brought a mobile eye-screening clinic to Rodgers’ area. For the first time, he was able to have his eyes properly examined.

The news was life-changing.

Rodgers was eligible for cataract surgery.

“I could not believe it,” he said.

Soon after, he made the journey to hospital, accompanied by his nieces who supported him every step of the way. Though he felt hopeful, there were still nerves. Would the surgery really work? Could his sight truly be restored?

The answer came in just 12 minutes.

In a simple but highly skilled procedure, the cloudy lens in Rodgers’ eye was carefully removed and replaced with a clear one.

The next day, as the bandage was gently lifted, Rodgers waited.

Then, light returned.

Clarity. Colour. Focus.

“I’m seeing clearly now… I’m happy!” he said with joy.

In that moment, everything changed.

With his sight restored, Rodgers could return to his work with confidence. Once again, he could thread a needle, repair clothes, and earn an income to support his family. His independence was restored, and with it, his sense of purpose.

“I am looking forward to being effective in my work and generating enough income for my family,” he said.

Today, Rodgers’ story is one of resilience – but also of restoration.

Despite the challenges he has faced throughout his life, one simple surgery has opened the door to a brighter future.

Because of you, Rodgers has been given a second chance.

And for so many others living with avoidable blindness, that same opportunity can mean everything – the chance to work, to provide, and to live life with dignity and independence once more.