Bringing Sight—and Hope—to Mongolia: Alcon Canada Volunteers Make a Lasting Impact
March 31, 2026
time to read 5 minutes
At Alcon, we believe that everyone deserves access to quality eye care, no matter where they live. That’s why we’re proud to support Julie Bell and Tristan Grenon, two dedicated Alcon Canada associates, who recently traveled to Mongolia as part of the Alcon Canada International Volunteer Program (AC-IVP). Their mission: to restore sight for patients in need and deliver transformative medical care alongside local medical teams in one of the most remote regions of the world.
A Journey Across the Wild Heart of Mongolia
The team’s journey began with a rugged, four-day trek across Mongolia’s vast steppe—a land of endless grasslands, nomadic herders, and dramatic weather. Traveling by land cruiser, they crossed provinces, stayed in traditional Gers, and experienced the beauty and resilience of Mongolian life. From dusty winds and snow squalls to brilliant blue skies, the environment was as striking as it was harsh—a reminder of the challenges faced by those living far from modern healthcare facilities.
Why Access to Eye Care Matters
Mongolia is the most sparsely populated country in the world, and many communities are hours—or even days—away from surgical centers. Combined with high UV exposure, dry air, and dust, these conditions contribute to a high prevalence of cataracts and other preventable vision problems. For many patients, cataracts go untreated for years, leaving them unable to work, care for their families, or live independently.
Pictured: Dr. Justin French (Laurel Surgical Foundation), Tristan Grenon (Alcon Canada), and Sunderya Yostoikhuu (2nd year resident)
Setting Up for Success
Upon arrival in Ulaangom, the volunteer team worked tirelessly to prepare two operating rooms and organize supplies in a hospital with limited space and resources. Creativity and collaboration were key as they overcame logistical challenges to ensure everything was ready for the first patients—individuals who had been waiting years for this life-changing procedure.
Something we hear a lot of is wanting to be part of something larger than yourself. I would like to add to that statement that what is really important to me is giving more than what I have received. Being part of Alcon has allowed me to do just that. I’m grateful for the opportunity to participate in this life-changing experience while making a difference for those that need it most.”
--Tristan Grenon, Alcon Canada Volunteer
Restoring Sight, Changing Lives
Over the course of the week, the Laurel Surgical team and local medical staff performed 127 cataract surgeries, each one a story of resilience and hope. Many patients arrived nearly blind, able to perceive only hand movements. Post-surgery, their gratitude was palpable—expressed through smiles, gestures, and heartfelt embraces despite language barriers.
Pictured: Dr. Justin French, Dr. Paul Cheevers, local patients
One unforgettable case involved a patient who had lost his left eye and part of his hand in a mining accident two decades ago. Surgeons discovered a fragment of metal lodged in his remaining eye’s lens—a complication that made the procedure long and difficult. The next day, he could see 20/30. His emotional embrace of the team was a powerful reminder of why this mission matters.
Pictured: Julie Bell (Alcon Canada) with local patients
These moments served as a powerful reminder of why the team is here; to restore not only vision, but also a sense of hope and dignity.”
--Julie Bell, Alcon Canada Volunteer
Building Local Capacity
In addition to providing support to the surgical team, the volunteers focused on training and knowledge-sharing with local medical staff. Hands-on teaching and open dialogue helped strengthen Mongolia’s eye care capacity for the long term. This collaboration ensures that the impact of the mission extends far beyond a single week.
Pictured: Dr. Justin French (Laurel Surgical Foundation), Lhagvasamdan Bayarkuu (3rd year resident)
More Than Medicine: Human Connection
The mission wasn’t just about restoring vision—it was about building relationships. From quiet moments of gratitude with patients to cultural exchanges with hospital staff, including a traditional meal in a Ger, the experience highlighted the strength of community and the universal desire for health and dignity. Thanks to the Laurel Surgical Foundation and the help of all the volunteers on site, these very proud and amazing patients finally get a chance to continue on with some form of autonomy.
Julie and Tristan played a major role in the success of this mission. They readily took on any task, providing life-changing care to patients and much-needed support to local residents and medical staff. Together, our team restored the vision of more than 120 patients. We are thankful to Tristan and Julie, and to Alcon for supporting their participation.”
--Dr. Hugh Parsons, Laurel Surgical Foundation
Pictured: Alcon Canada Volunteers, Laurel Surgical Team, Residents and Local Medical Staff
A Call to Action
This mission underscores a critical truth: access to eye care is not equal. In remote regions like Mongolia, systemic barriers and geographic isolation leave thousands without the care they need. As the global leader in eye care, we remain committed to bridging that gap—through volunteer programs, partnerships, and innovation—because restoring sight transforms lives.
127 surgeries. Countless stories of hope. One shared mission: to make quality eye care accessible for all.
About Alcon Canada International Volunteer Program (AC-IVP):
The Alcon Canada International Volunteer Program (AC‑IVP) enables Alcon Canada associates to make a global impact by volunteering their time and expertise in vision care and other health sectors, expanding access to quality eye care and supporting sustainable local capacity worldwide. Offered exclusively to eligible associates based in Canada, the program partners with established nonprofit and clinical organizations to support international outreach efforts in underserved regions. To date, volunteers have supported communities in Senegal, Honduras, and Mongolia. Care delivered during these missions is provided by licensed local or volunteer healthcare professionals in accordance with local laws and clinical governance requirements—not by Alcon employees acting independently. Alcon’s role is to support these efforts through product and equipment donations, knowledge-sharing, and capacity‑building initiatives, helping strengthen eye care systems while working alongside trusted partners committed to long‑term impact.
