Hello everyone, my name is JP Labuschagne — some of you may know me as “Oneeyemodel.” Today, I’m reaching out with a deeply personal request on behalf of an inspiring young man from Kenya named Malik Andrew, who is in urgent need of a prosthetic eye.
As someone who has walked this path — who has felt the stares, the self-doubt, and the long journey toward confidence after losing an eye — I know just how life-changing a prosthetic can be. It’s more than cosmetic. It’s dignity. It’s hope. It’s the ability to step into the world without hiding.
Malik has waited over five years for this chance.
Malik’s Story (In His Own Words)
In 2018, I was just a child when a tragic accident changed my life. While playing, I was accidentally struck in the eye with a metal object. My family couldn’t afford immediate medical help, and I lost sight in that eye.
In 2020, I saved enough to see a doctor, who said my eye couldn’t be saved. He told me that my only option for a more normal life was to get a prosthetic. They performed a procedure to ‘kill’ the remaining cells, making me eligible for a prosthetic in the future.
That future still hasn’t come. Every day I wish for a prosthetic.
For five years now, I’ve lived with this loss — hiding away, avoiding friends, and watching my confidence crumble. I’m studying engineering, but I struggle to feel like I belong anywhere.
A prosthetic eye wouldn’t just restore my appearance — it would restore my spirit. I dream of walking into a job interview or classroom without fear of judgment.
How You Can Help
We’re hoping to raise $350 — the cost quoted by a trusted ocularist I have been communicating with. I’ve already spoken with him, and he’s agreed to create Malik’s prosthetic at this reduced cost if we can raise the funds.
Ocularist Instagram page: @eyes_for_all_
I will be handling the donations personally and paying the ocularist directly, just as I’ve done for others in the past. Full transparency will be maintained, and updates will be shared along the way.
Why This Matters
This isn’t just about replacing what was lost. It’s about helping a brave young man reclaim his confidence, social life, and future.
I’ve been in Malik’s shoes. I know the power of feeling seen again. Please, if you can, consider donating — even $5 helps. And if you can’t give, please share Malik’s story. The more people who see this, the closer we get to giving him a new beginning.
With Gratitude,
JP Labuschagne
“OneEyedModel” & Advocate for Ocular Prosthetics
And on behalf of Malik Andrew