Academy support for Seeing is Believing
Liverpool FC continued its support for main sponsor Standard Chartered's Seeing is Believing campaign by holding a special event at the club's academy for those with visual impairments.
The initiative raises funds to tackle avoidable blindness in developing countries and has helped more than 28 million people in the world's poorest communities during the past nine years.
Reds stars wore the Seeing is Believing logo on their shirts during the final home game of last season against Chelsea, and will do so again this year when they face West Bromwich Albion on Monday.
The club's Academy talents also showed their commitment to the cause when welcoming a group of youngsters with visual impairments to learn more about football and sight issues.
After being partnered with a player, the visitors participated in football skills and games while the professionals were challenged to test their abilities when blindfolded.
"It's very difficult. You can understand what the kids go through day in and day out," said goalkeeper Ryan Fulton. "My partner was laughing away - it's nice and it puts a smile on your face. It's important."
Academy director Frank McParland added: "We're involved a lot with Seeing is Believing for Standard Chartered. They do an unbelievable job all around the world with this project.
"Our foundation has been heavily involved with it and we're delighted to support it."
Aspiring Liverpool defender Stephen Sama has also filmed a special message to tell the story of Mambo Princess, a child from Cameroon whose life was changed after a vital eye operation.
Mambo suffered from a cataract in her left eye since birth which affected her education and required urgent treatment to avoid permanent sight problems.
A trip to the ACHA Douala Eye Hospital and a straightforward operation removed the cataract completely, providing Mambo with perfect vision for the first time in her life and proving the importance of projects such as Seeing is Believing.
To find out more about Seeing is Believing or to make a donation, please visit www.seeingisbelieving.org>>