By Infora Media
An emotional scene unfolded at the grounds of Bukedea Teaching Hospital when a 104-year-old woman offered prayers of gratitude after receiving a wheelchair during the ongoing Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Eye Camp.
Amoding Esther, one of the oldest beneficiaries at the outreach, was presented with the wheelchair by businessman and philanthropist Sudhir Ruparelia. The gesture drew applause from patients, medical personnel and community members who had gathered for free eye screening and treatment services.
Visibly moved, the centenarian raised her hands in prayer, asking God to grant Ruparelia more years of life and continued success. She said the wheelchair would ease her mobility challenges and restore a sense of independence in her daily life.
The outreach is organized by the Ruparelia Foundation in memory of the late Rajiv Ruparelia, whose legacy of philanthropy continues to inspire community-based health interventions. The initiative has attracted thousands of residents from Bukedea and neighbouring districts seeking free eye care, consultations and treatment.
Medical teams at the camp said many beneficiaries are elderly people who have struggled to access specialised services due to financial constraints and long distances to major hospitals. In addition to eye treatment, the camp has provided assistive devices, counselling and referrals for advanced care.
Esther’s story stood out among many as a powerful symbol of gratitude and hope. Witnesses described the moment as one that captured the spirit of compassion driving the memorial camp, where medical support is paired with acts of kindness aimed at improving the dignity of vulnerable individuals.
Organisers said the programme forms part of broader efforts to extend healthcare outreach to underserved communities while honouring Rajiv Ruparelia’s commitment to social impact. They noted that the overwhelming turnout reflects the urgent demand for accessible eye care services in rural areas.
As the camp continues, similar stories of transformation are emerging, highlighting both the medical achievements and the human connections created through the initiative. For many beneficiaries like Esther, the outreach represents more than treatment, it offers renewed hope, comfort and a reminder that compassion can change lives.