RestoringVision’s program team has grown and transformed over the last 6 months, as new staff members bring fresh perspectives and new skills to our work of solving the global vision crisis through providing people in need with vision programs and glasses delivery.
Benjamin Cobb, Manager of Program and Monitoring, joined RestoringVision in March. Ben first became passionate about global health after traveling to Haiti and Guatemala, where he learned about the gap in access to healthcare in certain areas across the globe. Following this realization, Ben began his studies at the Duke University’s Global Health Institute, during which he completed his thesis work on Chronic Kidney Disease in India.
What do you enjoy most about your work at RestoringVision thus far?
Ben: RestoringVision benefits from a special network of global partners, all working to serve people in need. It is a pleasure to be able to work with individuals who are so passionate about vision care and global health, including both RestoringVision employees and its partners. I am encouraged every day by the conversations and work that takes place to help serve people who need access to vision care.
Why is this work important to you personally?
Ben: Every individual, regardless of location or background, should have access to health care. A main tenant of health care is vision care, and the ability to see is a right for every person. Additionally, research shows staggering economic impact after an individual receives a pair of reading glasses. This increase of productivity and income can enable a family to purchase other necessities, such as food and medicine. To me, providing someone with a pair of glasses is not just about vision correction, but about the doors vision correction can open.
Who inspires you most and why?
Ben: Pioneers in the world of global health have inspired me since I started studying and working in this area. Specifically, Paul Farmer served as an inspiration for me and many in the global health sector. His drive to provide health care to individuals at all costs is immensely motivating. His legacy inspires me to go to great lengths to serve those without access to care, and to leave a legacy that is far reaching and impactful, just as he did throughout his life.
What are you most looking forward to in your role at RestoringVision?
Ben: I’m looking forward to gaining a deeper understanding of the impact our programs have on individuals and to learn more about the specific ways glasses can change the lives of the people we are serving. Understanding the health, social, and economic impact a pair of glasses provides someone is exciting, and I look forward to seeing more people have a chance to benefit from this life changing item.
What do you do in your free time when you’re not solving the global vision crisis?
Ben: In my free time, I enjoy rock climbing, kayaking, and mountain biking. I also enjoy traveling with my wife and playing with our cat, Rio.
