Over the past year, former resident Kate Dalrymple collected eyeglasses and donated them to the 100 Mile Lions club for the needy. The 2004 Valedictorian from Peter Skene Ogden Secondary School has done a lot of volunteering in 100 Mile House, especially with the residents of Fischer Place, Millsite Lodge and Carefree Manor.
Currently in her first year of Optometry at the Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon, Dalrymple has been invited to join a team of optometrists, health care professionals and students to distribute these eyeglasses in small villages in El Salvador.
"I'm on an extremely tight budget and because I am an international student I am unable to work in the United States to earn money for this trip." says Dalrymple. Dalrymple needs a total of $1,285.00 to cover airfare, travel and accommodations, she has received some donations from local organizations.
Dr. Neil VanderHorst at 100 Mile Vision Care Centre where Dalrymple works (as well at Pharmasave) when at home during semester breaks, is encouraging her to go on the trip. People are welcome to drop off donations on her behalf at his office in the South Cariboo Business Centre, 475 Birch Avenue.
"Our student club at the University, Amigos Eye Care is part of Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (VOSH) International." says Dalrymple. Right now Darlymple is working with a team of students collecting donated eyeglasses and medications for the mission. In the villages the team will see 300 to 500 patients per day and treat a diversity of eye diseases.
"I would sincerely appreciate any donation towards this mission, I've collected $500.00 so far and I do have a little money to go towards the trip."
After she graduates, Darlymple will be returning to 100 Mile House where she was born and raised to practice as an Optometrist.
