“We are so grateful for the benevolence of these doctors and their willingness to give their time and resources to help a child who might not otherwise have access to proper healthcare,” said Tiffany Taylor, marketing director for BOCI and Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls. “Their act of selflessness will significantly impact the physical and social development of a child in need.”  

Dr. David Stager Sr., a partner at Pediatric Ophthalmology, P.A., and The Center for Adult Strabismus, will perform the 30-minute procedure Saturday, June 4 at Healthsouth in Dallas at 7:30 a.m. Assisting will be Stager’s son, Dr. David Stager Jr., or Dr. George Beauchamp, both associates at the eye center. Stager said surgeon’s fees for such a procedure average around $1,500, while the anesthesiologist usually charges between $500 and $700. Healthsouth is contributing to the cause by reducing its facility charges from $3,700 to $300. 

Stager’s practice, which comprises four offices, six pediatric ophthalmologists and a staff total of 25, emphasizes early detection and prevention of childhood eye diseases. 

“So much of what we communicate with is our eyes,” Stager explained. “Being unable to maintain good eye contact gets to be a major handicap and social problem in children with strabismus as they grow up.” 

In financially strapped Russian orphanages, he continued, “children need care and either have not had care, or have had inadequate care. We need to give the best that this country has to offer these children.” 

Stager, who has practiced ophthalmology in Dallas for 35 years, donated a similar procedure to an orphan girl with last year’s Angels from Abroad contingent. His partner, Dr. Priscilla Berry, also offered her services. 

“I admire so much what [Buckner] does for these children,” said Stager, adding that he has an adopted daughter, now 39. “I just felt that whatever little bit I could do to help would be very much worthwhile.” 

Launched last year, Buckner Angels from Abroad raises awareness about the preponderance of older children living in Russian orphanages and BOCI’s programs to improve their lives. The orphans, who range from 7 to 14 years old, reside locally with volunteer host families from the Christian community. 

Becky and Reggie Boles of Dallas will host Kristina and her 11-year-old brother, Dima. The Boles also hosted Olga, the Angel who last year underwent corrective eye surgery for strabismus. As she recalled last year’s experience, Becky said she looks forward to the days ahead and seeing another child’s life transformed. 

“Before the surgery, Olga would have to tilt her head to the side and hold a book real close to her face in order to see well enough to read,” she said. “After the surgery, she was very resilient. We still keep in touch. 

“It was amazing that doctors gave their time, effort and expertise with no expectation of a return other than knowing they’ve helped someone. I’m excited that Kristina will have the same opportunity.”      

The Angels will be immersed in Southwestern culture during their visit, including fun-filled excursions to the Mesquite Championship Rodeo and Texas Rangers’ game, Possum Kingdom and Texas-style cookouts. 

“What we do helps to some extent but giving these children a good life is something that Buckner does as well or better than anyone.” Stager said. 

For more information, visit www.helporphans.org or contact Stacie Bukowsky, special events coordinator, at (469) 877-2980 or sbukowsky@buckner.org.