Corneal Clarity
Illuminating Hope Through Vision
At Corneal Clarity, I share my passion for eye health, and we welcome everyone to join us in making hope and clear vision a reality. We are tackling the global challenge of corneal blindness, which affects over 10 million people, by bridging cutting-edge research with vital community awareness.
About Me
My name is Ayaan Cheema
I'm a student from Glastonbury, Connecticut, with a deep interest in the intersection of science and human health. Having faced my own vision challenges, I developed a lasting interest in the science of eyesight and the innovations that make clearer vision possible. Today, I conduct independent research on artificial corneas and nanomaterial-based transplants, alongside hands-on medical volunteering in Guatemala and various hospital settings.
My Mission
My mission is to promote healthy vision habits of teens by empowering them with the tools and knowledge to care for their eyes, specifically "the cornea."
My research on artificial corneas & Bioengineered Transplants
I've authored a 4,000+ word literature review on advances in artificial corneas and nanomaterial-based transplant solutions. I compiled my results by synthesizing findings from peer-reviewed journals, scientific databases, and clinical studies.
My paper has recently been submitted for publication to the International Journal of High School Research
Corneal Clarity
I raise awareness about global eye health and inspire young kids to take care of their vision. I've spoken to 50+ children and parents about science based ways to protect their eyesight. My goal is to make eye health approachable by blending education and creativity to show how small habits can make a lifelong difference. 5 WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR VISION WEAR SUNGLASSES - BLOCK HARMFUL UV RAYS. EAT HEALTHY FOODS - CARROTS, SPINACH, BERRIES, FISH TAKE SCREEN BREAKS - 20-20-20 RULE: EVERY 20 MINUTES, LOOK 20 FEET AWAY FOR 20 SECONDS. DON'T RUB YOUR EYES - KEEP GERMS AWAY. WEAR SAFETY GLASSES - PROTECT EYES DURING SPORTS AND SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS.
My Leadership
01
Shift Leader, Hartford Hospital Summer Volunteen Program
Assisted with managing a cohort of 81 teen volunteers, served as a liaison between staff and students, and helped plan the end-of-summer volunteer recognition ceremony.
02
Senior Firefighter Cadet
I participate in biweekly training in firefighting protocols, rescue drills, and emergency procedures. I also get to take part in live emergency calls
03
Glastonbury Robotics Team Summer Camp
Each summer, I help run our high school's Robotics Team Summer Camp, where younger students learn to design, build, and program their own lego robots. We guilde them through various build challenges, competitions, and teamwork activities.
Medical Experience
Guatemala Medical Mission
As a medical volunteer, I assisted a medical team serving an underserved school and village community in Coban, caring for over 100 patients in four days. I shadowed three physicians, checked patient vitals, and co-led a donation drive. How I served 🩺 Assisted doctors and nurses during community clinics 🧴 Helped prepare and distribute hygiene kits 📋 Helped take vitals and organize patient flow 👥 Worked with translators to communicate with families 👨⚕️Shadowed Physicians and observed clinical workflow.
Hartford Hospital Volunteering
I've volunteered in several departments at Hartford Hospital, including the Emergency Department and Central Sterile Department. I've provided comfort to patients in waiting rooms and treatment areas and assisted with logistical tasks such as organizing case carts and instrument trays.
Community Engagement & Volunteering
Mercy Food shelter Volunteering
I volunteer at a local food and shelter program where we cook and serve meals for people in need. It’s a place full of service, laughter, and teamwork. Every time I hand someone a plate, I’m reminded how small acts of care can make a big difference.
Tutor
I volunteer at Smith Middle School, helping younger students in any academic subject. Over the past year, I’ve helped more than 10 student strengthen their understanding of core subjects and improve their study habits. There’s nothing better than watching a student’s face light up when they finally understand something we’ve been working on.
