Los Angeles, May 21, 2025: On a bright spring day in April 2025, over 450 people gathered in Southern California for the 15th Annual Walk for Vision, organized by the Sankara Eye Foundation (SEF), USA. The event, filled with compassion and community spirit, aimed to raise funds and awareness to eliminate curable blindness in underserved parts of India. But this year’s walk carried a deeper emotional resonance—it was led once again by Anupama (Anu) Venkatesh, a woman whose spirit and commitment remain unshaken, even as she battles metastatic cancer.
Anupama has been the driving force behind the Southern California chapter of SEF for over 15 years. She organized the very first walkathon in 2010, and under her dedicated leadership, it has grown into a major community event that raises significant support for SEF’s mission. Her unwavering commitment to the cause has helped contribute to SEF’s ambitious Vision 2030 goal: to perform one million free eye surgeries annually in India.
“I was deeply honored to be able to organize this event and see it come to life,” Anupama said. “It was incredibly moving to witness the community—volunteers, families, friends, local supporters, and sponsors—rally together with energy, and we’re extremely grateful to everyone who showed up.”
Her leadership extends far beyond just the walkathon. Anu has spearheaded various impactful events in the Southern California region, including the annual Dandia Dhamaka during Navaratri, hackathons, speech and debate workshops, financial literacy programs for youth, and sponsor banquets—all to benefit SEF. Each initiative has helped raise awareness and funds, drawing the community closer to the mission of restoring sight to millions.
Even as she navigates the physical and emotional challenges of metastatic cancer, Anupama remains an active force for good. Her service goes beyond SEF—she plays a vital role in organizing efforts for the Hope of the Valley Shelter, serving home-cooked meals, distributing winter essentials like blankets and gloves, and bringing the community together to help the homeless. She also finds time to volunteer as an SAT teacher, supporting the academic growth of young students.
In a world often filled with hardship and uncertainty, Anupama’s courage and commitment offer a powerful reminder: that true service transcends personal struggle—and that even amid pain, there is purpose.
As SEF continues its March to a Million, Anupama walks with them—leading not just with her steps, but with her heart.
