Around the world, all eyes were on the coverage of the 33 trapped Chilean miners being brought to the surface after a 69-day ordeal; the miners' eyes, however, were shielded from the elements by dark sunglasses by Oakley, an Orange County-based company, who donated 35 pairs, according to an AP report published in the Daily News.
"A few weeks ago, Oakley was approached by a Chilean journalist who was covering the rescue efforts and had recommended Oakley to the Chilean private health insurer," noted Oakley on their website.
Needing to protect their retinas from damage after spending over two months in the dark, the company provided wraparound-style glasses with their darkest lens. The shades are helping the rescued men get used to the outdoor light, and keep their eyes comfortable while protecting against damage from UV rays and through the adjustment period.
The shades typically retail for $260 a pair; they are among the many gifts from US and global retailers given to the miners during the course of their being trapped. Though for most the focus is on the miners and their well-being, there is a long-range benefit for companies involved in the rescue, like Oakley. "In worldwide television impact alone, Oakley garnered $41 million in equivalent advertising time," points out CNBC.
