MacKendy Charles sees the world in a whole new light.

The 22-year-old Haitian man had lost his sight due to tuberculosis and was told he would go completely blind. But, thanks to a double corneal transplant at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, Charles now has 20/100 vision.

Charles’ teachers at the Salvation Army school he attends in Port au Prince describe him as an extremely bright student who loves to read. As a result of his failing eyesight; however, he had to hold books up against his nose in order to see the words. Friends and classmates would help him study up to six hours each day.

After learning about Charles from the school’s director, Good Shepherd Hospital and physicians agreed to help. Doctors donated their time and talents for two transplant surgeries, and Good Shepherd covered all of Charles’ hospital costs. In addition, the medical staff collected $3,000 to help pay for Charles and his translator to stay in Barrington for several weeks during the surgeries and recovery.

"It really is a miracle," Charles says through his translator after the first surgery. "All of you are gifts from God. I am truly blessed."

The transplant was a success, and before going back to Haiti, Charles was able to see his first major league baseball game at Wrigley Field.