On 17 April 2023, the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity (GOCC) marked a significant milestone in paediatric ophthalmology. Following the fundraising success of the 30th Grand Finale, which took place in 2022, the GOCC signed a contract to purchase four simulators specifically designed for teaching the examination of children for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). These simulators are the first of their kind in the world and represent a pioneering step in medical training.
These advanced simulators, costing nearly PLN 1.8 million, will be allocated to the following prestigious institutions in Poland:
The 30th Grand Finale, held on 30 January 2022, was dedicated to enhancing paediatric ophthalmology services across Poland under the inspiring slogan "See the Light!". The event aimed to raise funds for crucial medical equipment to support children’s eye care. The extraordinary generosity of donors and the tireless efforts of volunteers resulted in the collection of PLN 224,376,706.35.
The funds raised during the 30th Grand Finale enabled the GOCC to organise three major Open Tenders – the 63rd, 65th, and 68th. These contests facilitated the purchase of essential equipment for paediatric ophthalmology wards, including:
The addition of these ROP simulators represents a groundbreaking advancement in paediatric ophthalmology. Retinopathy of prematurity is a serious eye condition that affects premature infants, potentially leading to blindness if not properly diagnosed and treated. The simulators will provide invaluable training to ophthalmologists, enhancing their ability to diagnose and manage this condition effectively.
With these state-of-the-art simulators, Poland sets a precedent in paediatric eye care training, reinforcing the Great Orchestra's commitment to improving healthcare through innovative solutions. These efforts will not only benefit the current generation of patients but also pave the way for advancements in paediatric ophthalmology worldwide.
Five days before the 32nd Grand Finale of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity, we visited the 'Pomnik - Centrum Zdrowia Dziecka' (Children's Memorial Health Institute) to ceremoniously inaugurate the first Ophthalmic Simulation Laboratory in Europe dedicated exclusively to the field of peadiatric ophthalmology.
For the eighteenth time, Jurek Owsiak, this time from the final stage on the PGE Narodowy meadows in Warsaw, opened the joyful run under the same slogan "Get Even with Diabetes". Crowds of running enthusiasts, after a five-kilometre route through the streets of Warsaw, will reach the finish line located in the same place.
The 1,685 Collection Centres in Poland and abroad are in the final lap of the preparations for the Grand Finale events. It's your last chance to participate in the initiative! See how your company can support the 32nd Grand Finale fundraiser!
