From a young boy growing up in Nigeria to a college student at Texas Tech University, God has been preparing Seejay Okafor to be a physician’s assistant for many years. Currently, Seejay serves as a volunteer as Co-Coordinator for Lubbock Impact’s Eye Clinic and has used his life experiences to connect with participants on a personal level, showing them a deeper level of compassionate care. 

Growing up in a rural community in Nigeria, Seejay at times lacked resources for his basic needs. For example, Seejay did not grow up with access to basic healthcare; something he didn’t realize was missing until he came to the United States for high school. During his high school years, Seejay, inspired by his mother’s work in healthcare, began to pursue every opportunity to get hands-on experience in the field of healthcare including teaching young children the importance of proper dental hygiene. Looking back on his own childhood in Nigeria, Seejay realized he never had the opportunity to receive that same education when he was that age but now understood how important it is. 

During his junior year at Texas Tech University, Seejay was in search of shadowing opportunities that would fulfill his graduation requirements and provide some field experience but wanted to find an opportunity that gave him a sense of purpose rather than just something to fulfill credit. He wanted to find a place where he would leave a lasting impact long after his time there was over.  

Seejay wanted to make an impact in the healthcare disparity to fill the gaps like those he had witnessed in Nigeria. This was when he found Lubbock Impact, which he considers a “true blessing”. It was intimidating, as Seejay recalls, but he saw it as an opportunity to grow and knew that Lubbock Impact was offering him the chance to make a lasting difference for people. 

His time at Lubbock Impact has only fueled his desire to care for others. 

Each time Seejay sees a patient try on their new glasses, he is reminded why he chose to dedicate his life to serving others. Seeing faces light up, the joy of finally having relief after they have struggled with their sight for so long, and practically seeing the burden fall off their shoulders reignites his passion for healthcare. “The difference that Lubbock Impact is making is tangible. Patients come struggling and leave with a little less worry. Just seeing [patients] feel better is a reward because they can live life to the fullest with fewer restrictions.” 

As Seejay’s time at Lubbock Impact is coming to an end, he confidently noted that he has found purpose here. During his time, he has learned how to effectively communicate with patients to provide them with care based on their individual needs. He has not only been able to provide patients with eye care, but he has also learned how to connect with each person learning their life story.  

We’re so grateful for Seejay’s time here and the impact he has made. We know without a doubt that he will continue to make an impact through the empowerment he felt in his role as our Eye Clinic Coordinator. Now, we can only hope that when he finishes physician assistant school he will be back to volunteer!