At a time when Ukrainians live under constant tension and stress, caring for one’s health is not only about medical support — it is about trust, empathy, and humanity. These values lie at the heart of the nationwide medical and social initiative See and Perceive, a project that has been improving lives for many years.

The charitable Medical Foundation Supporting the Development of Medicine, in partnership with the Vasyl Shevchyk Eye Microsurgery Clinic, continues to implement this initiative in the Chernihiv region, making high-quality eye care accessible to everyone who needs it. The project began back in 2008 and has since become a symbol of clinical excellence and unwavering commitment: more than 80,000 people have received expert consultations, and over 1,000 have undergone free surgeries.

The initiative operates in two key fields — ophthalmology and aesthetic medicine — offering assistance to both civilians and military personnel affected by Russian terrorist aggression. All medical services are delivered at the highest professional standards.

The project’s mission is to raise awareness about the prevention of eye diseases and to protect people’s vision. Free screenings help identify risks at early stages and prevent severe, sometimes irreversible, consequences.

The medical component of the screening includes measuring visual acuity and intraocular pressure — essential steps for the early detection of glaucoma, one of the most insidious causes of vision loss.

The social component is equally meaningful: individuals who need glasses receive them free of charge. The foundation supplies the eyewear, ensuring crucial support without financial strain for the patient.

If elevated intraocular pressure or other concerning symptoms are detected, patients may schedule a more detailed examination at the clinic. To do so, they must present a flyer that remains valid for one month from the date of the screening.

A comprehensive examination offers clear advantages. Medically, it ensures early detection, precise diagnostics, and timely treatment — the key to preserving sight. Socially, it provides a 25 percent discount on the consultation fee, an important form of support amid current economic challenges.

Scheduling is straightforward: the patient calls the contact center and books a convenient time for the appointment. The special offer remains valid for one month after participating in the screening, while the visit itself may take place later.

The initiative is held in Chernihiv once or twice a month, allowing broad access to essential eye care. The project’s curator, ophthalmologist Liubov Kononenko, oversees the organization, the quality of examinations, and clear, compassionate communication with patients.

See and Perceive is more than a medical initiative. It is a place of trust, where people receive not only care but also a sense of safety and support. It is a project that changes lives, preserves sight, and reminds us that we are stronger when we care for one another.