Behind every Elena Barraquer Foundation expedition lies much more than just surgery. There are intense days of work, shared effort, camaraderie and, above all, many stories of people regaining their sight and, with it, part of their independence and quality of life.

Our latest expedition to Botswana has been a very special experience for the whole team. From surgeons and healthcare staff to field volunteers, every single person has played a vital role in achieving an extraordinary result: 580 people have regained their sight thanks to the work of the entire team.

But beyond the figures, what stays with us are the emotions, the lessons learnt and the bonds formed during these days. Here’s how some of our volunteers experienced it.

Norbert, field volunteer

‘Now that I’m sitting on the train back home, having just landed in Zurich, I can’t help but think back on the last few days in Botswana.

I’d like to thank, from the bottom of my heart, every single person who has allowed me to be part of this very special expedition with the Elena Barraquer Foundation.

It has been deeply moving to see how, by working together, we have managed to restore sight to so many people through cataract surgery and, in doing so, give them a little more independence and quality of life.

What has impressed me most has not only been the medical and technical results, but also the team spirit, passion and commitment with which each of us has contributed to making this possible.

This week has reminded me, once again, of just how much we can achieve when we work together, and how valuable our work is when it directly reaches those who need it most.

I take with me this experience and all the encounters I’ve had, which I will remember for a long time to come. Thank you for making me feel part of this wonderful team.

Emilia, surgeon

‘I’d also like to say a few words to thank you all for these days we’ve spent together in Africa.

What we’ve achieved is wonderful! 580 people can now see again thanks to everyone’s hard work. It’s absolutely incredible when you stop to think about what that means!

I’m taking home an incredible experience. I think that each of us, in our own way, has been essential in making sure everything went as it did. Because this isn’t just about performing operations, but about all the work that goes into every surgery.

I’d particularly like to thank Lau, who has been infinitely patient with me and made me feel really at ease from day one, making things so much easier for me. It’s been a huge pleasure working with you!

I’m leaving happy, grateful and with the feeling of having shared something truly special.”

Graciela, ophthalmologist

“For me, this experience has been very special. One of the reasons I chose to become an ophthalmologist was precisely the hope of one day being able to take part in an expedition like this.

It has been thrilling to see a group of people working so hard, in a coordinated manner and towards a common goal.

Naza, Lucho, Caro, Laura, Sofía and Bruno, working tirelessly; Bea, Caty and Norbert, completely out of their comfort zone, giving their very best; Fede, looking after the patients’ wellbeing and ours too — thank you for your visits! —; María, juggling all the coordination; and my dear Sara, who couldn’t have been a better companion on this adventure, both personally and professionally.

Thank you all. I hope we’ll meet again. I carry you all in my heart with so much affection.”

Sara, field volunteer

‘What can I say that hasn’t already been said?

Norbert, you’re an inspiration to us all. Thank you!

It’s been a pleasure to spend this week full of emotions with you all. This has been my first experience of humanitarian work, but I’m sure it won’t be my last.

I don’t know if I could keep up with the surgeons – you’re all brilliant! Caro, so brave; Naza, so experienced; and Luciano, thank you for sharing all your knowledge with me. It was a real treat to watch you operate.

My admiration also goes to the scrub nurses, who, in my view, have one of the toughest roles on the expedition, and my utmost appreciation to Bea and Caty, who, despite not being medical staff, have done a brilliant job!

María, thank you for including me in this project.

And to our South African colleagues, thank you for the chocolate, the Amarula and the lessons to help improve my English!

See you soon!”