In El Salvador, access to essential healthcare can often feel out of reach for many, particularly for those living in poverty. For 25 years, PazSalud (“PeaceHealth” in English) has worked to bridge this gap, sharing healthcare resources to communities in need. SEE and Alcon partnered with PazSalud in 2021 to expand their mission further. Through this partnership, donated surgical supplies are delivered to local ophthalmologists, enabling them to provide free cataract surgery to economically marginalized seniors who would otherwise have no access to care.
In May 2025, PazSalud and Rosales National Hospital in San Salvador came together once again, with the support of SEE International and Alcon, to provide free cataract surgeries for some of El Salvador’s most vulnerable patients. For many, this surgery means more than just improved vision, it means independence, safety, and survival.
Here are just a few of the powerful stories that came out of this most recent mission:
Martha’s Story: A Second Chance at Vision
Martha’s journey with vision loss began years ago when she suffered a severe eye injury. Unfortunately, her financial situation prevented her from affording the necessary medications, transportation for follow-up care, or even taking time off work without risking her job. As a result, her injured eye was permanently damaged. By the time she arrived at Rosales Hospital, Martha was legally blind, with an advanced cataract threatening the vision in her remaining eye.
But thanks to this essential partnership, Martha received sight-restoring surgery completely free of cost, allowing her to maintain hope and independence.
Alexander’s Story: Restoring Livelihood and Hope
Farming has been Alexander’s life and livelihood for as long as he can remember. But as cataracts clouded his vision, the once-familiar landscape of his fields became impossible to navigate. Unable to plant or harvest, his ability to provide for his family was slipping away. And like so many in El Salvador, private medical care was far beyond his reach.
Fortunately, Alexander learned of the eyecare clinic, and underwent cataract surgery that allowed him to return to the work that sustains his family.
Josefina’s Story: Saving Sight for Safety
Meet Josefina. Her cataracts had advanced to the point where falling became a daily fear. A recent fall nearly broke her hip, and she knew she needed help before it was too late.
“When you can’t see, falls can be fatal,” she explained.
But because of the recent eye clinic held in partnership with PazSalud and Rosales Hospital, Josefina no longer lives in fear. She received free cataract surgery that not only improved her vision, but restored her sense of safety and peace of mind.
Partnerships that Change Lives
Stories like these remind us of the critical importance of access to care. The partnership between PazSalud, SEE International, Alcon, and Rosales National Hospital is a powerful example of what’s possible when compassionate organizations come together to serve those in need.
