Equal access to testing and treatment for our retinoblastoma patients

In March, Aravind received a grant from the Jaya G. Iyer Endowment Fund, a Field of Interest Fund at the Madison Community Foundation to provide treatment and genetic testing for our patients with retinoblastoma (eye cancer).

Much of retinoblastoma has a genetic element – a parent or sibling has already had the disease. Aravind has developed a rapid testing method which reduces the cost of testing from $1400 to $200 per test. This improves the odds of catching the disease in an early, curable stage and saving the sight and lives of our patients. However, $200 is still out of reach for most Indian families. This grant will help ensure equal access to early diagnosis and treatment for all our patients.

The Jaya G. Iyer Endowment Fund supports organizations in the United States and India engaged in the treatment of blindness, eye diseases, injury or other afflictions impairing the eyesight of persons living in India. Madison Community Foundation uses its local knowledge and assets to inspire giving, support meaningful initiatives, and connect people for the common good. We are grateful for their support.