PCH reminds residents: March is Eye Donor Month

National Eye Donor Month is observed each March to honor donors, celebrate cornea recipients and educate the public about eye donation, Putnam County Hospital reminds local residents..

The Indiana Lions Eye Bank is a non-profit corporation committed to helping those in need of eye transplantations. It has been providing eye tissue for transplant since 1959.

A state project of the Lions of Indiana, it is headquartered in Indianapolis, providing a full range of transplant services. Every year, with the assistance of dedicated partners, they help countless people regain their sight.

The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. The entire eye cannot be transplanted, but can be used for research and education. Almost anyone can be an eye donor. Cornea donation is not dependent on age, eye color, blood type or even eyesight quality.

Each year, approximately 70,000 individuals benefit from cornea transplantation. Visual loss from corneal diseases compromises quality of life. This tragic loss of vision may result from congenital corneal disease, infection, trauma, chemical burns, or corneal swelling. There is no substitute for human tissue. The transplantation process depends upon the priceless gift of eye donation from one human to another. With a success rate of over 95% in saving and improving vision, transplants bring light to the world of people from all walks of life -- from the very young to the very old.

In 2014, Putnam County Hospital was responsible for making a difference in the lives of nearly 14 individuals through the gift of sight. In the past six years approximately 46 people have had corneal transplants due to their efforts and the generosity of the donor families. These are ffamily members, friends, and neighbors who now have their vision restored.

Since President Ronald Reagan's first proclamation in 1983, a member of Congress has read a proclamation for National Eye Donor Month into the Congressional Record each year to note this special occasion.

Individuals interested in eye, tissue or organ donation should access the state registry at www.donatelifeindiana.org; donor designation can also be made through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

For more information about the Indiana Lions Eye Bank, visit www.indianalionseyebank.org.