Katie S., Whistler, B.C. - Optician / Optical Manager

"TWEECS allowed me to apply my knowledge to another country.  It was not only rewarding for the people  I dispensed glasses to, but for myself it was so humbling to see the smiles and tears when the locals received their first-ever glasses.  This was a great opportunity to meet like minded professionals, improve my Spanish, and travel safely to a new country.  Marina and Derrick are an inspiration to everyone that we can make a difference!"

Katie with two beautiful and deserving children with first-time and necessary eyeglasses.

Doreen E., Vancouver, B.C. - Traveller

"This trip to Ecuador was so interesting as we travelled to three different communities over vast distances.  While registering one lady, who couldn't speak, she took the ring off her finger and gave it to me.  What a precious moment!  Meeting the Quichua people, who gave us hugs, was very rewarding.  My thanks to Marina for her vision and persistence and staying true to her grandmother's wishes of helping the poor and under-privileged."

Doreen still smiling after taking hundreds of registrations.

Tim K., Terrace, B.C. - Piano Technician

"I've had the most personally fulfilling and rewarding ten days since my last TWECS mission five years ago.  We visited rural communities in three distinct geographic regions of Ecuador and met kind and grateful people everywhere.  We were able to help children who had never clearly seen their mother's faces and crafts people who could no longer see to earn their livelihoods.   There are a lot of sad stories too, but it feels great to help those that we can."

Tim using the auto refractor to assist optometrists.

Allison C., Nanaimo, B.C. - Optometrist

"This is my second mission with TWECS and it was just as rewarding as the first.  It amazes me how, within 48 hours, eighteen strangers become good friends.  It is very uplifting to be able to give sight to people who do not have access to any eye care.  You see a patient who cannot see past their arm put on glasses and see 20/30.  The amazement of their face is something you will always remember.  It is a lot of hard work but there is also time for play.  With TWECS there is opportunity to have  down time and experience the wonders of the country.  On this trip, half of us went canyoneering which was a great adventure with beautiful scenery.  I would highly recommend anyone who is interested in doing volunteer work to join this wonder organization."

Allison perfecting a prescription for a patient.

Rebecca C., Terrace, B.C. - Optometrist

"Ecuador was my third project with TWECS and each one has been an incredible experience.  It is humbling to witness the grace and dignity of the people we serve, and their gratitude for the small amount of help we can offer to improve their lives.  There is absolutely nothing like the light in the eyes of a person who can see clearly for the first time, or see again after many years.  I spent most of my time in Ecuador very close to tears; it was very emotional.  The other wonderful part of a TWECS project is the camaraderie of the team.  The bonds we create in our shared experience last for years.  I wish everyone could be lucky enough to share in a TWECS mission."

Rebecca conducting and eye examination.

Carl D., Cornerbrook, N.F. - Optometrist

Ecuador is beautiful,

As far as the eye can see

Here is what the TWECS mission

Has meant to me.

Eight days of eye exams,

For the young and old,

Left us full of memories

And stories to be told.

It takes hard work to care,

For those in need,

But to see the smiles on their faces, 

Makes it worth it, indeed.

                     ~ Carl

Carl and patient in make-shift exam room.

Annu K., Edmonton, A.B. - Optometrist

"WOW! That's the best way for me to describe my wonder experience with TWECS.  I have never felt so proud of what I do.  The feeling that I can help so many people with so little; just a pair of reading glasses!  I love the fact that with a simple pair of glasses we can change someone's life.  I would love to do this over and over again.  Above all, the people you meet, especially the team leaders, make it worth your while."

One of Annu's many grateful and affectionate patients.