White canes, or canes of any kind, are now life saving tools for the blind who survived the Tsunami.  White canes with a red tip alert all to blindness and can help vision impaired people navigate the disaster area. White canes are the only way a blind person can travel.  The canes alert others a person is blind and needs assistance to find food, rest facilities, showers and whatever else is available.

Most eyeglasses were lost during the crushing water blow and certain prescriptions might do for someone to use, until their right pair can be renewed.  Over-the-counter magnifying glasses will help people with vision problems of a simple nature.  These types of magnifying glasses come in varying strengths and are worn like regular eyeglasses.

Sunglasses to keep out the sun’s glare can be worn by all, to save sight.  Over-the-counter eye drops will help prevent contagious diseases until antibiotics can be administered.  Flashlights will help low vision victims see at night and help others to seek out and help them.  Flashlights with built-in radios are the most useful.

Braille books and items used by the most challenged persons, as well as guide dogs, are probably not available in that part of the world yet.  RP International’s President Helen Harris lost her eyesight to RP.  She requests the children receive white canes in fitted sizes as soon as possible to prevent further injury.

Glasses however, must be close to the Rx of the former user, or more blurred vision will occur than before.  However, many times people come to RP International and wore eyeglasses with another Rx, rather than feel the darkness. 

Sun-glasses, old glasses and white canes of all sizes are requested by RP International for shipping to the disaster area to help people with losses that are incomprehensible to most.  For further information from RP International about how to donate to the Disaster Relief Fund, please call (818) 992-0500 or (800) FIGHT RP now or visit us on our websites at: www.rpinternational.org or  www.VisionAwards.org, or write to P.O. Box 900 Woodland Hills CA, 91365.  FAX (818) 992-3265.