Modern warfare has dramatically increased the prevalence of traumatic eye injuries, with so-called “double tap” attacks—repeated strikes on the same target—causing severe harm to medics, emergency crews, and other humanitarian responders. As noted in BBH co-founder Dr. Gary Barth’s recent essay, Eyes, Modern Warfare, and First Responders, eye trauma is among the most common injuries in modern combat zones, often resulting in irreversible blindness. Protective eyewear, though relatively inexpensive, is in alarmingly short supply in Ukraine.

 

“I'm a first responder myself,” said Barth, an ophthalmic surgeon with over 25 years of humanitarian fieldwork. “When I learned many of Ukraine’s frontline heroes were going without basic eye protection, I knew we could help. Protecting sight isn’t just about restoring vision; it’s about preventing loss before it happens. These first responders are risking everything, and this is one small way we can stand with them. I hope others will join us in supporting this urgent mission.”

 

Through this collaboration, BBH will source and fund the delivery of certified ballistic protective eyewear to our partner Eye Care for Ukraine, which will oversee on-the-ground distribution to first responders with the greatest need. The first shipment of lenses is slated for distribution in August 2025, with additional rounds to follow based on logistical learnings and product feedback from frontline responders.

 

In a follow-up post, Sightlines: Frontline Vulnerability in Ukraine, Barth highlights alarming data indicating eye injuries now account for up to 15% of battlefield trauma cases, many of which are preventable with appropriate personal protective equipment. These injuries reflect not only a lack of protection but a pressing need for coordinated, preventive action.

 

With this initiative, BBH builds on its core mission of addressing curable blindness by expanding into preventative protection for those at risk in Ukraine. BBH remains focused on improving access to compassionate, professional eye care—and now, preserving sight before it’s lost. 

 

To help protect the vision of those risking everything on the front lines, we invite you to make a donation via the form on this page.