Thilakma City Partners LRH to Launch Paediatric Eye Care Donation Initiative ‘Thilakma Smiles’

Childhood cataract is one of the few causes of blindness that can be treated, yet many children in Sri Lanka lose their chance to see clearly simply because help does not reach them in time. Recognising the critical importance of early intervention, Thilakma City (Private) Limited has partnered with the Lady Ridgeway Hospital (LRH) for Children to support life-changing paediatric eye care through its new ‘SMILES donation initiative’.

In response to a formal request from LRH, Thilakma has committed to donating essential ophthalmic consumables, specifically cataract lenses, to support these surgeries. To mark the launch of this collaboration and raise awareness, the ‘Thilakma Smiles’ donation event will be held on 23 December at the 3rd Floor Auditorium of LRH.

Speaking on the initiative, Buddhika Kariyawasam, Managing Director of Thilakma City, said:

“Childhood cataract is a condition that no child should lose their sight to—because it is treatable. At Thilakma, we believe every child deserves the chance to see their parents’ faces, to read, to dream, and to grow without limitations. Through the SMILES initiative, we aim to remove one of the biggest barriers to treatment by providing essential cataract lenses, giving children a real chance at a brighter future.”

Dr. Hiranya Abeysekera, Consultant Pediatric Ophthalmologist at LRH, added:

“Early treatment is absolutely vital in childhood cataract cases. Delays can permanently affect a child’s visual development, even if surgery is performed later. Access to the correct cataract lenses at the right time makes an enormous difference. Initiatives such as SMILES directly support timely surgery and help ensure children have the best chance to develop normal vision and lead independent, fulfilling lives.”

As part of the initiative, the public is invited to contribute by purchasing a ‘Smile Sticker’ from any Thilakma outlet. All funds raised will support child cataract surgeries at LRH, and Thilakma will match and double the contributions, donating cataract lenses directly to children in need.

The donation programme will commence on 1 January 2025 and run for one year, subject to donations received. Thilakma will focus on providing cataract lenses, while LRH will continue to carry out surgeries and follow-up care, ensuring that children receive timely and effective treatment.