Optometrist runs the Boston Marathon for free eye care for Central America

April 19, 2010

The Boston Marathon is one of the most well-known athletic events in the country as competitors from all around the world enter the race on behalf of their favorite charity.

Dr Derek Feifke, a South African native who has lived in the United States for 22 years, is an optometrist in Massachusetts who has run seven marathons in order to raise money for missions to Central America. Feifke leads teams of optometrists south of the border to offer free eye care to residents, according to the Boston Globe.

In addition to raising the money, Feifke has taken part in seven missions since 2001, working in volunteer eye care clinics in countries such as Nicaragua and Guatemala.

"So many people who are legally blind just need glasses," Feifke told the news provider. "They just want to be able to read their Bibles, or mend their fishing nets, so they can provide for their family."

According to the American Optometric Association, individuals should have their eyes checked every other year to watch out for developing conditions.