News
See Beyond Yourself: Eye Donation Month Highlights Powerful Stories of Sight, Hope and Generosity
November 2, 2026

In recognition of Eye Donation Month this November, Sierra Donor Services (SDS) and Sierra Donor Services Eye Bank (SDSEB) are sharing the message: “See Beyond Yourself,” a national campaign celebrating the life-changing impact of corneal donation and transplantation.
The month-long observance honors eye donors, donor families, recipients, and healthcare professionals whose lives are connected through the gift of sight.
Nearly 12 million people worldwide suffer from corneal blindness that may be treated through transplantation. Eye Donation Month raises awareness of the importance of eye donation and encourages individuals to register as organ, eye and tissue donors. One donor can create a lasting legacy of hope by restoring sight and improving quality of life for others. This Eye Donation Month, Sierra Donor Services and Sierra Donor Services Eye Bank encourage the community to See Beyond Yourself and consider registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor.
Eye Bank Breakdown

Behind every number is a life changed, a vision restored, and an impact made possible through cornea donation.
Facts about Cornea Disease and Eye Donation:

- Around 12 million people worldwide suffer from corneal blindness that could be restored through a cornea transplant.
- A cornea transplant helps individuals avoid the direct and indirect costs of vision loss, including ongoing medical expenses, long-term care, and loss of productivity for both patients and caregivers.
- Eye diseases rank as the fifth most costly health issue in the U.S., following heart disease, cancer, mental health disorders, and pulmonary conditions.
- Corneal transplants have a success rate of over 95%.
Restoring Sight Through Lifesaving Corneal Transplants
“My donor transformed my life. I will always be grateful for the gift I received.”
— Joe Dutra, cornea recipient (pictured right)

Make the gift of sight possible for others like Joe.
Sign up to be an organ, eye and tissue donor at registerme.org.
About Sierra Donor Services
Sierra Donor Services (SDS) serves nearly three million people in Northern California and Northern Nevada. We are an exceptional team of professionals dedicated to saving and improving lives by connecting organ and tissue donation to the patients who need them. We strive to extend the reach of each generous donor’s gift to those who are always profoundly grateful for them.