There is a lot of commotion in the news regarding the impact that blue light has on the eye. Many people contend that exposure, over time, can damage the eyes and potentially result in blindness. The accuracy of such claims is essential to millions of people who use devices that emit blue light, such as smartphones and smart TVs. So, are the allegations true?
Good news! According to David Ramsey, MD, Ph.D., MPH, the answer to the above question is no! He says that the amount of light emitted is not enough to cause harm or lead to macular degeneration et al. Dr. Ramsey says:
“Compared to the risk from aging, smoking, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and being overweight, exposure to typical levels of blue light from consumer electronics is negligible in terms of increased risk of macular degeneration or blindness.”
At SDCB, we help people living with vision loss meet everyday challenges. Please contact us to learn more about the services we provide.
“Will blue light from electronic devices increase my risk of macular degeneration and blindness?”
Blindness from Blue Light Exposure
04/12/2019 11:33AM
The Answer to Treating Several Causes of Blindness
04/12/2019 11:32AM
Researchers from the University of Surrey and the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute at Indiana University School of Medicine have discovered compounds from a group of plants that could be used to treat the causes of degenerative eye diseases. The findings of the research could help treat proliferative diabetic retinopathy, and more blinding eye conditions. Diabetic retinopathy happens when high blood sugar levels harm the back of the eye, resulting in blindness.
"It goes without saying that losing your eyesight is a devastating experience,” said Professor Dulcie Mulholland, Head of Department of Chemistry at the University of Surrey. “We believe that our results hint at possible future treatments for many degenerative eye conditions and it appears that nature still has many secrets to reveal."
Each day, students at SDCB reach their highest potential for confident, independent living. We can help you achieve your goals too. Please reach out to learn more.
“Nature could provide the answer for blindness caused by diabetes, say experts”
"It goes without saying that losing your eyesight is a devastating experience,” said Professor Dulcie Mulholland, Head of Department of Chemistry at the University of Surrey. “We believe that our results hint at possible future treatments for many degenerative eye conditions and it appears that nature still has many secrets to reveal."
Each day, students at SDCB reach their highest potential for confident, independent living. We can help you achieve your goals too. Please reach out to learn more.
“Nature could provide the answer for blindness caused by diabetes, say experts”
Blind Piano Prodigy Inspires All
04/12/2019 11:30AM
A 6-year-old piano prodigy is capturing hearts and minds thanks to viral videos of his performances online. Avett Ray Maness used his ears to teach himself how to master the ivory and ebony keys. Avett was born with optic nerve fibroplasia; he has never had the experience of vision. He does not let blindness hold him back!
"The moment he could pull himself to reach the piano, he was playing the melody to 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,'" said Avett Ray's mom, Sara Moore. "Music is in his body.”
SDCB provides services to legally blind adults who are age 18 or older. Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“6-year-old blind piano prodigy goes viral for "Bohemian Rhapsody" and other classic covers”
"The moment he could pull himself to reach the piano, he was playing the melody to 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,'" said Avett Ray's mom, Sara Moore. "Music is in his body.”
SDCB provides services to legally blind adults who are age 18 or older. Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“6-year-old blind piano prodigy goes viral for "Bohemian Rhapsody" and other classic covers”
Blind Piano Prodigy Inspires All
04/12/2019 11:30AM
A 6-year-old piano prodigy is capturing hearts and minds thanks to viral videos of his performances online. Avett Ray Maness used his ears to teach himself how to master the ivory and ebony keys. Avett was born with optic nerve fibroplasia; he has never had the experience of vision. He does not let blindness hold him back!
"The moment he could pull himself to reach the piano, he was playing the melody to 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,'" said Avett Ray's mom, Sara Moore. "Music is in his body.”
SDCB provides services to legally blind adults who are age 18 or older. Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“6-year-old blind piano prodigy goes viral for "Bohemian Rhapsody" and other classic covers”
"The moment he could pull himself to reach the piano, he was playing the melody to 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,'" said Avett Ray's mom, Sara Moore. "Music is in his body.”
SDCB provides services to legally blind adults who are age 18 or older. Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“6-year-old blind piano prodigy goes viral for "Bohemian Rhapsody" and other classic covers”
Eye Health and Safety Month for Women
04/05/2019 01:33PM
Did you know that women are affected by eye diseases such as cataract, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration at higher rates than men? Prevent Blindness wants to raise awareness about the importance of taking care of your vision. The nation’s oldest eye health and safety non-profit organization declares April Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month. Prevent Blindness recommends that women get regular eye exams, quit smoking, and use cosmetics safely.
All of SDCB’s services utilize a specialized field of service, called Vision Rehabilitation, which plays a central role in addressing age-related vision loss. Please contact us to learn more.
“Prevent Blindness Declares April as Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month”
All of SDCB’s services utilize a specialized field of service, called Vision Rehabilitation, which plays a central role in addressing age-related vision loss. Please contact us to learn more.
“Prevent Blindness Declares April as Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month”
Eye Health and Safety Month for Women
04/05/2019 01:33PM
Did you know that women are affected by eye diseases such as cataract, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration at higher rates than men? Prevent Blindness wants to raise awareness about the importance of taking care of your vision. The nation’s oldest eye health and safety non-profit organization declares April Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month. Prevent Blindness recommends that women get regular eye exams, quit smoking, and use cosmetics safely.
All of SDCB’s services utilize a specialized field of service, called Vision Rehabilitation, which plays a central role in addressing age-related vision loss. Please contact us to learn more.
“Prevent Blindness Declares April as Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month”
All of SDCB’s services utilize a specialized field of service, called Vision Rehabilitation, which plays a central role in addressing age-related vision loss. Please contact us to learn more.
“Prevent Blindness Declares April as Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month”
Helping People With Blindness Use Cosmetics
04/05/2019 01:30PM
The visually impaired are a market that has been mostly ignored by the cosmetic industry even though 36 million people worldwide are entirely blind, and 217 million have a visual impairment. Cosmetic packaging isn’t designed to cater to people with vision loss; however, changes are afoot.
Sam Latif is Procter & Gamble’s special consultant on inclusive design, a new role at the company. She has a condition called retinitis pigmentosa, which stole her sight. Her job is to make sure the 1.3 billion people worldwide who have a disability can easily use cosmetic products.
“People think just because blind women can’t see, they don’t care about what they look like,” says Latif. “They think that the visually impaired don’t spend money on beauty products or can’t apply makeup so they’re not relevant to this industry.”
SDCB’s services help the visually impaired live a life doing many of the things they did while sighted. Please reach out to learn more.
“Blindness & Beauty: How Visually Impaired Women Are Changing an Industry That Ignored Them”
Sam Latif is Procter & Gamble’s special consultant on inclusive design, a new role at the company. She has a condition called retinitis pigmentosa, which stole her sight. Her job is to make sure the 1.3 billion people worldwide who have a disability can easily use cosmetic products.
“People think just because blind women can’t see, they don’t care about what they look like,” says Latif. “They think that the visually impaired don’t spend money on beauty products or can’t apply makeup so they’re not relevant to this industry.”
SDCB’s services help the visually impaired live a life doing many of the things they did while sighted. Please reach out to learn more.
“Blindness & Beauty: How Visually Impaired Women Are Changing an Industry That Ignored Them”
Running Guides for the Blind
04/05/2019 01:28PM
Last month, three running guide dogs named Westley, Waffle and Gus ran with a blind runner in the 2019 New York City Half Marathon. It was the first time that a blind runner completed the half marathon with guide dogs.
The runner, Thomas Panek, is also the president and CEO of Guiding Eyes for the Blind, an organization that has trained guide dogs for the visually impaired for decades. He started the “Running Guides" program in 2015.
"It never made sense to me to walk out the door and leave my guide dog behind when I love to run and they love to run," he said. "It was just a matter of bucking conventional wisdom and saying why not."
SDCB’s vision rehabilitation program is recognized for its effectiveness in helping people with no vision to those with changing vision return to an independent lifestyle. Please contact us to learn more.
“Blind runner, guide dog trio makes history in NYC Half Marathon”
The runner, Thomas Panek, is also the president and CEO of Guiding Eyes for the Blind, an organization that has trained guide dogs for the visually impaired for decades. He started the “Running Guides" program in 2015.
"It never made sense to me to walk out the door and leave my guide dog behind when I love to run and they love to run," he said. "It was just a matter of bucking conventional wisdom and saying why not."
SDCB’s vision rehabilitation program is recognized for its effectiveness in helping people with no vision to those with changing vision return to an independent lifestyle. Please contact us to learn more.
“Blind runner, guide dog trio makes history in NYC Half Marathon”
Carving Braille Designs Out of Ice
03/29/2019 02:39PM
The Bozeman Chapter of the Montana Association for the Blind gathered together to do something pretty impressive last week. They carved ice! Not just any carving either, they sculpted the BMAB logo along with the corresponding Braille!
BMAB President Todd Fahlstrom points out that Bozeman lacks hands-on activities for people living with vision loss. He says the ice carving is an opportunity for people to learn that vision loss doesn’t have to hold you back.
“There are very little things that are tactile that we can touch when you go to a museum,” said Fahlstrom. “Everything is behind glass, so how you do you experience that? So I wanted an event where we could actually have people come up to the ice and feel it. And so it will be cool to see. I have never felt braille in ice. So it will be a fun experience doing that today.”
Braille is a tactile writing system utilized by individuals who are visually impaired.
People living with vision loss are not alone; support and resources are available. Please contact SDCB to learn more.
“Ice sculptors carve braille designs for Bozeman chapter of blindness association”
BMAB President Todd Fahlstrom points out that Bozeman lacks hands-on activities for people living with vision loss. He says the ice carving is an opportunity for people to learn that vision loss doesn’t have to hold you back.
“There are very little things that are tactile that we can touch when you go to a museum,” said Fahlstrom. “Everything is behind glass, so how you do you experience that? So I wanted an event where we could actually have people come up to the ice and feel it. And so it will be cool to see. I have never felt braille in ice. So it will be a fun experience doing that today.”
Braille is a tactile writing system utilized by individuals who are visually impaired.
People living with vision loss are not alone; support and resources are available. Please contact SDCB to learn more.
“Ice sculptors carve braille designs for Bozeman chapter of blindness association”
Carving Braille Designs Out of Ice
03/29/2019 02:39PM
The Bozeman Chapter of the Montana Association for the Blind gathered together to do something pretty impressive last week. They carved ice! Not just any carving either, they sculpted the BMAB logo along with the corresponding Braille!
BMAB President Todd Fahlstrom points out that Bozeman lacks hands-on activities for people living with vision loss. He says the ice carving is an opportunity for people to learn that vision loss doesn’t have to hold you back.
“There are very little things that are tactile that we can touch when you go to a museum,” said Fahlstrom. “Everything is behind glass, so how you do you experience that? So I wanted an event where we could actually have people come up to the ice and feel it. And so it will be cool to see. I have never felt braille in ice. So it will be a fun experience doing that today.”
Braille is a tactile writing system utilized by individuals who are visually impaired.
People living with vision loss are not alone; support and resources are available. Please contact SDCB to learn more.
“Ice sculptors carve braille designs for Bozeman chapter of blindness association”
BMAB President Todd Fahlstrom points out that Bozeman lacks hands-on activities for people living with vision loss. He says the ice carving is an opportunity for people to learn that vision loss doesn’t have to hold you back.
“There are very little things that are tactile that we can touch when you go to a museum,” said Fahlstrom. “Everything is behind glass, so how you do you experience that? So I wanted an event where we could actually have people come up to the ice and feel it. And so it will be cool to see. I have never felt braille in ice. So it will be a fun experience doing that today.”
Braille is a tactile writing system utilized by individuals who are visually impaired.
People living with vision loss are not alone; support and resources are available. Please contact SDCB to learn more.
“Ice sculptors carve braille designs for Bozeman chapter of blindness association”
The Cost of Blindness is Staggering
03/29/2019 02:37PM
At the Retina World Congress in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Andrew A. Moshfeghi, MD, MBA said that neovascular age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, and proliferative diabetic retinopathy is estimated to cost the U.S. approximately $21 billion by 2020. Moreover, he said that if management of these conditions does not improve then the direct, indirect, and intangible costs will triple by 2050.
“Age-related macular degeneration will constitute the lion’s share of this amount with a little over $16 billion. Diabetic retinopathy will be about $4.5 billion,” said Moshfeghi.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing vision loss, please contact the San Diego Center for the Blind. We offer many programs and services that can help.
“Social cost of retinal blindness in US will be billions of dollars by 2020”
“Age-related macular degeneration will constitute the lion’s share of this amount with a little over $16 billion. Diabetic retinopathy will be about $4.5 billion,” said Moshfeghi.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing vision loss, please contact the San Diego Center for the Blind. We offer many programs and services that can help.
“Social cost of retinal blindness in US will be billions of dollars by 2020”
Mental Health Issues Affect People Living With Blindness
03/29/2019 02:35PM
Only 17 percent of people living with vision impairment are offered emotional support in connection with their disorder, according to the Royal National Institute of Blind People. Elin Williams, 20, is a student living with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye condition that can cause blindness. She believes that it is imperative to raise awareness about mental health conditions affecting people with vision loss. She says:
"I think it's about understanding that blindness and mental health can come hand in hand... anxiety can be triggered from not being able to see people and not being able to see the world like everyone else.”
"But it's all about telling people that although there are challenges, it's possible to live a positive life despite having sight loss."
At SDCB, we help adults with blindness and vision impairment to be independent. Please contact us to learn more.
“Blindness and mental health can come hand in hand”
"I think it's about understanding that blindness and mental health can come hand in hand... anxiety can be triggered from not being able to see people and not being able to see the world like everyone else.”
"But it's all about telling people that although there are challenges, it's possible to live a positive life despite having sight loss."
At SDCB, we help adults with blindness and vision impairment to be independent. Please contact us to learn more.
“Blindness and mental health can come hand in hand”
DAMO Academy is Helping the Visually Impaired
03/22/2019 11:03AM
China’s e-commerce site Alibaba created the DAMO Academy to explore “the unknown through scientific and technological research and innovation. The driving force behind the Academy is the pursuit of the betterment of humanity.” The $15 billion research initiative is determined to make smartphones more accessible to the visually impaired.
The design team created software called Smart Touch and hardware called Braille Buttons to help those living with vision loss. Chen Zhao, the research leader, says:
“We’re spoiled by technology, but there are so many people that are left out.”
If you require help with vision loss, please look into our rehabilitation and other services. We can help you regain some independence.
“Alibaba's Adhesive Buttons Help the Visually Impaired Interact With Smartphones”
The design team created software called Smart Touch and hardware called Braille Buttons to help those living with vision loss. Chen Zhao, the research leader, says:
“We’re spoiled by technology, but there are so many people that are left out.”
If you require help with vision loss, please look into our rehabilitation and other services. We can help you regain some independence.
“Alibaba's Adhesive Buttons Help the Visually Impaired Interact With Smartphones”
DAMO Academy is Helping the Visually Impaired
03/22/2019 11:03AM
China’s e-commerce site Alibaba created the DAMO Academy to explore “the unknown through scientific and technological research and innovation. The driving force behind the Academy is the pursuit of the betterment of humanity.” The $15 billion research initiative is determined to make smartphones more accessible to the visually impaired.
The design team created software called Smart Touch and hardware called Braille Buttons to help those living with vision loss. Chen Zhao, the research leader, says:
“We’re spoiled by technology, but there are so many people that are left out.”
If you require help with vision loss, please look into our rehabilitation and other services. We can help you regain some independence.
“Alibaba's Adhesive Buttons Help the Visually Impaired Interact With Smartphones”
The design team created software called Smart Touch and hardware called Braille Buttons to help those living with vision loss. Chen Zhao, the research leader, says:
“We’re spoiled by technology, but there are so many people that are left out.”
If you require help with vision loss, please look into our rehabilitation and other services. We can help you regain some independence.
“Alibaba's Adhesive Buttons Help the Visually Impaired Interact With Smartphones”
Blind Athlete Says Vision Loss is not a Disability
03/22/2019 11:00AM
A blind athlete has dreams of one day being an NFL running back. The first-ever! Adonis Watt lost his eyesight at the age of 5 due to congenital glaucoma, a rare form of the condition. Adonis, like so many people living with blindness, does not let his lack of sight prevent him from chasing his dreams.
The young, blind athlete is a Vision Hero for The Vision of Children Foundation. As an ambassador, Watt uses his experience to inspire other young people living with vision loss to pursue their goals.
“Vision loss is a diagnosis, not a disability,” said Adonis Watt. He adds that “If you’re passionate about something, go chase it.”
Please visit the SDCB store for a complete line of aids and appliances to increase independence for blind and vision impaired individuals.
“Blind football player with NFL dreams is the latest to join Vision of Children ‘Vision Heroes’”
The young, blind athlete is a Vision Hero for The Vision of Children Foundation. As an ambassador, Watt uses his experience to inspire other young people living with vision loss to pursue their goals.
“Vision loss is a diagnosis, not a disability,” said Adonis Watt. He adds that “If you’re passionate about something, go chase it.”
Please visit the SDCB store for a complete line of aids and appliances to increase independence for blind and vision impaired individuals.
“Blind football player with NFL dreams is the latest to join Vision of Children ‘Vision Heroes’”
Blind Athlete Says Vision Loss is not a Disability
03/22/2019 11:00AM
A blind athlete has dreams of one day being an NFL running back. The first-ever! Adonis Watt lost his eyesight at the age of 5 due to congenital glaucoma, a rare form of the condition. Adonis, like so many people living with blindness, does not let his lack of sight prevent him from chasing his dreams.
The young, blind athlete is a Vision Hero for The Vision of Children Foundation. As an ambassador, Watt uses his experience to inspire other young people living with vision loss to pursue their goals.
“Vision loss is a diagnosis, not a disability,” said Adonis Watt. He adds that “If you’re passionate about something, go chase it.”
Please visit the SDCB store for a complete line of aids and appliances to increase independence for blind and vision impaired individuals.
“Blind football player with NFL dreams is the latest to join Vision of Children ‘Vision Heroes’”
The young, blind athlete is a Vision Hero for The Vision of Children Foundation. As an ambassador, Watt uses his experience to inspire other young people living with vision loss to pursue their goals.
“Vision loss is a diagnosis, not a disability,” said Adonis Watt. He adds that “If you’re passionate about something, go chase it.”
Please visit the SDCB store for a complete line of aids and appliances to increase independence for blind and vision impaired individuals.
“Blind football player with NFL dreams is the latest to join Vision of Children ‘Vision Heroes’”
Remembering the Inventor of Braille Blocks
03/22/2019 10:57AM
Sighted people don’t spend much time looking down when they walk city sidewalks. Many individuals have never stopped to wonder why some sidewalks are bumpy or grooved. Blind people and the visually impaired can tell you that there is a lot to glean from what’s under your feet. Paying attention to tactile signatures beneath one’s feet is a real lifesaver for countless people around the world.
The late inventor Seiichi Miyake made an enormous contribution to the vision loss community when he imagined sidewalks infused with Braille. Tenji blocks, or “braille blocks,” guide people living with blindness safely. Straight imply one is heading toward safe zones; elevated domes indicate treacherous traffic ahead.
SDCB helps people without vision to those with changing vision return to an independent lifestyle. Please contact our team to learn more.
“The Google Doodle Honoring Seiichi Miyake Will Make You Think About What's Under Your Feet”
The late inventor Seiichi Miyake made an enormous contribution to the vision loss community when he imagined sidewalks infused with Braille. Tenji blocks, or “braille blocks,” guide people living with blindness safely. Straight imply one is heading toward safe zones; elevated domes indicate treacherous traffic ahead.
SDCB helps people without vision to those with changing vision return to an independent lifestyle. Please contact our team to learn more.
“The Google Doodle Honoring Seiichi Miyake Will Make You Think About What's Under Your Feet”
Museum Gives People Living with Blindness a Rare Opportunity
03/14/2019 03:54PM
Most museums severely frown upon people touching the exhibits on display. Such institutions have good reasons for their policies; however, it means that people living with blindness or low vision will never have a chance to admire works of art.
Tactile art, on the other hand, allows people living with vision loss a chance to experience what everyone else is seeing. At the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, there is a new permanent tactile art exhibit. "In Touch with Art: Tactile Sculpture" debuted March 2; it is a fixed exhibit, but art pieces will rotate periodically.
"I feel like tactile art can be every bit as dynamic and wonderful and creative as any visual art," said resident artist Ann Cunningham.
Preparing meals, paying bills, shopping, studying or working are challenges that must be faced and overcome by those who experience vision loss. SDCB helps people meet those challenges; please contact us to learn more.
“Woodson Art Museum introduces permanent tactile exhibit”
Tactile art, on the other hand, allows people living with vision loss a chance to experience what everyone else is seeing. At the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, there is a new permanent tactile art exhibit. "In Touch with Art: Tactile Sculpture" debuted March 2; it is a fixed exhibit, but art pieces will rotate periodically.
"I feel like tactile art can be every bit as dynamic and wonderful and creative as any visual art," said resident artist Ann Cunningham.
Preparing meals, paying bills, shopping, studying or working are challenges that must be faced and overcome by those who experience vision loss. SDCB helps people meet those challenges; please contact us to learn more.
“Woodson Art Museum introduces permanent tactile exhibit”
Museum Gives People Living with Blindness a Rare Opportunity
03/14/2019 03:54PM
Most museums severely frown upon people touching the exhibits on display. Such institutions have good reasons for their policies; however, it means that people living with blindness or low vision will never have a chance to admire works of art.
Tactile art, on the other hand, allows people living with vision loss a chance to experience what everyone else is seeing. At the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, there is a new permanent tactile art exhibit. "In Touch with Art: Tactile Sculpture" debuted March 2; it is a fixed exhibit, but art pieces will rotate periodically.
"I feel like tactile art can be every bit as dynamic and wonderful and creative as any visual art," said resident artist Ann Cunningham.
Preparing meals, paying bills, shopping, studying or working are challenges that must be faced and overcome by those who experience vision loss. SDCB helps people meet those challenges; please contact us to learn more.
“Woodson Art Museum introduces permanent tactile exhibit”
Tactile art, on the other hand, allows people living with vision loss a chance to experience what everyone else is seeing. At the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, there is a new permanent tactile art exhibit. "In Touch with Art: Tactile Sculpture" debuted March 2; it is a fixed exhibit, but art pieces will rotate periodically.
"I feel like tactile art can be every bit as dynamic and wonderful and creative as any visual art," said resident artist Ann Cunningham.
Preparing meals, paying bills, shopping, studying or working are challenges that must be faced and overcome by those who experience vision loss. SDCB helps people meet those challenges; please contact us to learn more.
“Woodson Art Museum introduces permanent tactile exhibit”
MSU Leaders Honored for Their Work in Blindness and Low Vision Field
03/14/2019 03:52PM
The American Foundation for the Blind, a leader in opening doors for the nearly 25 million Americans living with vision loss, recognizes two Mississippi State University leaders for their contributions in the field of vision loss. The Migel Medal – the highest honor in the blindness field – was given to Elton Moore, retired MSU professor, College of Education associate dean, and the former director of the National Research and Training Center (NRTC) on Blindness and Low Vision and Michele McDonnall, MSU research professor and current NRTC director.
“To receive the Migel Medal is the quintessential lifetime achievement award in the blindness field, and to be a part of a nationally renowned group that includes Helen Keller is truly humbling,” Moore said.
SDCB vision rehabilitation programs are available to all—regardless of their disability or socioeconomic status. Please reach out to learn how we can help you regain your independence.
“NRTC current, former directors at MSU receive national honors for work in blindness field”
“To receive the Migel Medal is the quintessential lifetime achievement award in the blindness field, and to be a part of a nationally renowned group that includes Helen Keller is truly humbling,” Moore said.
SDCB vision rehabilitation programs are available to all—regardless of their disability or socioeconomic status. Please reach out to learn how we can help you regain your independence.
“NRTC current, former directors at MSU receive national honors for work in blindness field”
MSU Leaders Honored for Their Work in Blindness and Low Vision Field
03/14/2019 03:52PM
The American Foundation for the Blind, a leader in opening doors for the nearly 25 million Americans living with vision loss, recognizes two Mississippi State University leaders for their contributions in the field of vision loss. The Migel Medal – the highest honor in the blindness field – was given to Elton Moore, retired MSU professor, College of Education associate dean, and the former director of the National Research and Training Center (NRTC) on Blindness and Low Vision and Michele McDonnall, MSU research professor and current NRTC director.
“To receive the Migel Medal is the quintessential lifetime achievement award in the blindness field, and to be a part of a nationally renowned group that includes Helen Keller is truly humbling,” Moore said.
SDCB vision rehabilitation programs are available to all—regardless of their disability or socioeconomic status. Please reach out to learn how we can help you regain your independence.
“NRTC current, former directors at MSU receive national honors for work in blindness field”
“To receive the Migel Medal is the quintessential lifetime achievement award in the blindness field, and to be a part of a nationally renowned group that includes Helen Keller is truly humbling,” Moore said.
SDCB vision rehabilitation programs are available to all—regardless of their disability or socioeconomic status. Please reach out to learn how we can help you regain your independence.
“NRTC current, former directors at MSU receive national honors for work in blindness field”
Color Blindness Solution on the Horizon
03/14/2019 03:49PM
Gabrielle Masone’s dream, hard work, and innovation could help people living with color blindness. While studying at Dalhousie University, Masone decided to set herself to task in finding a solution to color deficiency. At her company, Colorsmith Labs, Inc. in Halifax, Nova Scotia, she is using nanoparticle technology to create contact lenses which allow wearers to see every color. Scientists at Saint Mary’s University assist Gabrielle's research.
"So, we've made the functional nanoparticles, which is super exciting, and we're just optimizing them, but we are in the testing phase of actually starting to put them in contact lenses," said Danielle Tokarz of the Saint Mary's University Chemistry Department.
Masone says her company requires a $1.5 million investment to finish the project.
The San Diego Center for the Blind (SDCB) provides vision rehabilitation services to legally blind adults who are age 18 or older. Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“New contact lenses could correct color blindness”
"So, we've made the functional nanoparticles, which is super exciting, and we're just optimizing them, but we are in the testing phase of actually starting to put them in contact lenses," said Danielle Tokarz of the Saint Mary's University Chemistry Department.
Masone says her company requires a $1.5 million investment to finish the project.
The San Diego Center for the Blind (SDCB) provides vision rehabilitation services to legally blind adults who are age 18 or older. Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“New contact lenses could correct color blindness”
Multiple Sclerosis Can Cause Vision Loss
03/09/2019 10:00AM
Depression, trouble walking, vertigo, exhaustion, body pain, numbness, weakness, and vision loss are some of the symptoms that people living with Multiple Sclerosis or MS can experience. Many people who are subject to the above troubles chalk them up as not worth paying any mind to; MS often goes undiagnosed for years.
Actor Clementine Ford (“The L Word,” “The Young and the Restless”) shares that she dealt with MS symptoms for a decade, including sporadic vision loss, before she finally received a diagnosis from her doctor.
"It started when I was 19 or 20. I would lose sight in one of my eyes when I was jogging outside when it was hot," said Ford. People with MS can have adverse reactions to heat.
March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month!
SDCB’s Assistive Technology Center and Store offer tools that can help you or a loved one become more independent. Please reach out to us to learn how we can help.
“The L Word” Actor Clementine Ford Shares What It's Like To Live With Multiple Sclerosis”
Actor Clementine Ford (“The L Word,” “The Young and the Restless”) shares that she dealt with MS symptoms for a decade, including sporadic vision loss, before she finally received a diagnosis from her doctor.
"It started when I was 19 or 20. I would lose sight in one of my eyes when I was jogging outside when it was hot," said Ford. People with MS can have adverse reactions to heat.
March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month!
SDCB’s Assistive Technology Center and Store offer tools that can help you or a loved one become more independent. Please reach out to us to learn how we can help.
“The L Word” Actor Clementine Ford Shares What It's Like To Live With Multiple Sclerosis”
Explaining Impending Vision Loss to Your Partner
03/09/2019 09:58AM
Usher syndrome is a rare recessive genetic condition and is the most common cause of deaf-blindness. There is no cure or treatment, unfortunately. Those born with the disease have hearing loss; however, vision loss usually starts in one’s adolescence in the form of retinitis pigmentosa.
Shannon Reyenga has always been deaf, but she didn’t know that her hearing loss was the result of Usher syndrome. She has experienced poor night vision loss, a precursor to blindness in such cases, but was unprepared to learn she had the condition at a routine vision check-up at LensCrafters. Even though Reyenga’s boyfriend knew she was deaf from their first date, she struggled to share with him that she would eventually be unable to see.
“After I learned I had Usher syndrome, I thought I lost any chance of finding love. I struggled with the idea of finding someone willing to face this challenging diagnosis with me. I could hardly face it myself.
Is your vision changing? SDCB can help! Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“Why I Didn’t Tell My Boyfriend I Was Going Blind Until I Absolutely Had To”
Shannon Reyenga has always been deaf, but she didn’t know that her hearing loss was the result of Usher syndrome. She has experienced poor night vision loss, a precursor to blindness in such cases, but was unprepared to learn she had the condition at a routine vision check-up at LensCrafters. Even though Reyenga’s boyfriend knew she was deaf from their first date, she struggled to share with him that she would eventually be unable to see.
“After I learned I had Usher syndrome, I thought I lost any chance of finding love. I struggled with the idea of finding someone willing to face this challenging diagnosis with me. I could hardly face it myself.
Is your vision changing? SDCB can help! Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“Why I Didn’t Tell My Boyfriend I Was Going Blind Until I Absolutely Had To”
Explaining Impending Vision Loss to Your Partner
03/09/2019 09:58AM
Usher syndrome is a rare recessive genetic condition and is the most common cause of deaf-blindness. There is no cure or treatment, unfortunately. Those born with the disease have hearing loss; however, vision loss usually starts in one’s adolescence in the form of retinitis pigmentosa.
Shannon Reyenga has always been deaf, but she didn’t know that her hearing loss was the result of Usher syndrome. She has experienced poor night vision loss, a precursor to blindness in such cases, but was unprepared to learn she had the condition at a routine vision check-up at LensCrafters. Even though Reyenga’s boyfriend knew she was deaf from their first date, she struggled to share with him that she would eventually be unable to see.
“After I learned I had Usher syndrome, I thought I lost any chance of finding love. I struggled with the idea of finding someone willing to face this challenging diagnosis with me. I could hardly face it myself.
Is your vision changing? SDCB can help! Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“Why I Didn’t Tell My Boyfriend I Was Going Blind Until I Absolutely Had To”
Shannon Reyenga has always been deaf, but she didn’t know that her hearing loss was the result of Usher syndrome. She has experienced poor night vision loss, a precursor to blindness in such cases, but was unprepared to learn she had the condition at a routine vision check-up at LensCrafters. Even though Reyenga’s boyfriend knew she was deaf from their first date, she struggled to share with him that she would eventually be unable to see.
“After I learned I had Usher syndrome, I thought I lost any chance of finding love. I struggled with the idea of finding someone willing to face this challenging diagnosis with me. I could hardly face it myself.
Is your vision changing? SDCB can help! Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“Why I Didn’t Tell My Boyfriend I Was Going Blind Until I Absolutely Had To”
Alleviating The Hardships of Blindness
03/09/2019 09:56AM
Larry Misrok, 81, has a rare autoimmune disease (birdshot chorioretinopathy) that caused inflammation in his eyes, destroying a layer of his retina that left him living with blindness. He has lived with visual impairment since the 1970s, which is no easy feat. In recent years and thanks to technological advancements, Larry has regained some independence.
Today, Misrok is aided by high-tech glasses made by Aira. The spectacles do not restore a person’s vision; they allow Aira employees to see what the user should be seeing; operators guide people with vision loss through the use of a smartphone app. Several other assistive technologies exist that are making the lives of people living with blindness a little or a lot easier.
“Technology can be an extremely powerful tool for someone who is visually impaired if it is used along with a person’s other skills and abilities,” says Ryan Jones, a legally blind program manager with VFO Group, which helps companies become more accessible to users with disabilities. “These types of programs allow equal access to opportunities and careers for people who are visually impaired. They’re in just about every type of profession you can think of—except maybe airline pilot.”
Do you want to live as independently as possible? Please contact SDCB to learn how we can help you achieve that goal.
“A Vision Quest”
Today, Misrok is aided by high-tech glasses made by Aira. The spectacles do not restore a person’s vision; they allow Aira employees to see what the user should be seeing; operators guide people with vision loss through the use of a smartphone app. Several other assistive technologies exist that are making the lives of people living with blindness a little or a lot easier.
“Technology can be an extremely powerful tool for someone who is visually impaired if it is used along with a person’s other skills and abilities,” says Ryan Jones, a legally blind program manager with VFO Group, which helps companies become more accessible to users with disabilities. “These types of programs allow equal access to opportunities and careers for people who are visually impaired. They’re in just about every type of profession you can think of—except maybe airline pilot.”
Do you want to live as independently as possible? Please contact SDCB to learn how we can help you achieve that goal.
“A Vision Quest”
Alleviating The Hardships of Blindness
03/09/2019 09:56AM
Larry Misrok, 81, has a rare autoimmune disease (birdshot chorioretinopathy) that caused inflammation in his eyes, destroying a layer of his retina that left him living with blindness. He has lived with visual impairment since the 1970s, which is no easy feat. In recent years and thanks to technological advancements, Larry has regained some independence.
Today, Misrok is aided by high-tech glasses made by Aira. The spectacles do not restore a person’s vision; they allow Aira employees to see what the user should be seeing; operators guide people with vision loss through the use of a smartphone app. Several other assistive technologies exist that are making the lives of people living with blindness a little or a lot easier.
“Technology can be an extremely powerful tool for someone who is visually impaired if it is used along with a person’s other skills and abilities,” says Ryan Jones, a legally blind program manager with VFO Group, which helps companies become more accessible to users with disabilities. “These types of programs allow equal access to opportunities and careers for people who are visually impaired. They’re in just about every type of profession you can think of—except maybe airline pilot.”
Do you want to live as independently as possible? Please contact SDCB to learn how we can help you achieve that goal.
“A Vision Quest”
Today, Misrok is aided by high-tech glasses made by Aira. The spectacles do not restore a person’s vision; they allow Aira employees to see what the user should be seeing; operators guide people with vision loss through the use of a smartphone app. Several other assistive technologies exist that are making the lives of people living with blindness a little or a lot easier.
“Technology can be an extremely powerful tool for someone who is visually impaired if it is used along with a person’s other skills and abilities,” says Ryan Jones, a legally blind program manager with VFO Group, which helps companies become more accessible to users with disabilities. “These types of programs allow equal access to opportunities and careers for people who are visually impaired. They’re in just about every type of profession you can think of—except maybe airline pilot.”
Do you want to live as independently as possible? Please contact SDCB to learn how we can help you achieve that goal.
“A Vision Quest”
Middles School Student Wins Regional Braille Challenge
03/02/2019 12:45PM
The Braille Institute in California hosts the National Braille Challenge each year. The competition is meant to inspire young, visually impaired individuals to hone their reading and writing skills.
A seventh-grader placed first in the 2019 S.C. Regional Braille Challenge on February 7, 2019. Competing against 11 other students from across South Carolina, Brenson Baker won the Apprentice/Novice Level which included spelling, reading comprehension, and proofreading. The top-scoring 60 contestants in the United States are invited to compete in the final round in Los Angeles, CA, this June.
Do you know someone that requires our vision rehabilitation services and would like help? Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“Brenson Baker wins first place at S.C. Regional Braille Challenge”
A seventh-grader placed first in the 2019 S.C. Regional Braille Challenge on February 7, 2019. Competing against 11 other students from across South Carolina, Brenson Baker won the Apprentice/Novice Level which included spelling, reading comprehension, and proofreading. The top-scoring 60 contestants in the United States are invited to compete in the final round in Los Angeles, CA, this June.
Do you know someone that requires our vision rehabilitation services and would like help? Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“Brenson Baker wins first place at S.C. Regional Braille Challenge”
Middles School Student Wins Regional Braille Challenge
03/02/2019 12:45PM
The Braille Institute in California hosts the National Braille Challenge each year. The competition is meant to inspire young, visually impaired individuals to hone their reading and writing skills.
A seventh-grader placed first in the 2019 S.C. Regional Braille Challenge on February 7, 2019. Competing against 11 other students from across South Carolina, Brenson Baker won the Apprentice/Novice Level which included spelling, reading comprehension, and proofreading. The top-scoring 60 contestants in the United States are invited to compete in the final round in Los Angeles, CA, this June.
Do you know someone that requires our vision rehabilitation services and would like help? Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“Brenson Baker wins first place at S.C. Regional Braille Challenge”
A seventh-grader placed first in the 2019 S.C. Regional Braille Challenge on February 7, 2019. Competing against 11 other students from across South Carolina, Brenson Baker won the Apprentice/Novice Level which included spelling, reading comprehension, and proofreading. The top-scoring 60 contestants in the United States are invited to compete in the final round in Los Angeles, CA, this June.
Do you know someone that requires our vision rehabilitation services and would like help? Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
“Brenson Baker wins first place at S.C. Regional Braille Challenge”
Inventor Patricia Bath and Her Fight Against Blindness
03/02/2019 12:43PM
While February was Black History Month, today we would like to introduce you to Dr. Patricia Bath. Dr. Bath is a leader in the fight against blindness in the black community. At Columbia University she learned that African Americans were twice as likely to develop blindness, compared to other patients. Moreover, the demographic is eight times more likely to develop glaucoma.
Aside from being the first African American to finish a residency in ophthalmology, Dr. Bath was the first female faculty member in the Department of Ophthalmology at UCLA. She is the co-founder of the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness and invented the Laserphaco Probe in 1981. The device made cataracts treatments less painful and more precise.
SDCB helps people living with vision loss reach their highest level of independence. Please contact us to learn more.
“Black History: Bath brought sight to many”
Aside from being the first African American to finish a residency in ophthalmology, Dr. Bath was the first female faculty member in the Department of Ophthalmology at UCLA. She is the co-founder of the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness and invented the Laserphaco Probe in 1981. The device made cataracts treatments less painful and more precise.
SDCB helps people living with vision loss reach their highest level of independence. Please contact us to learn more.
“Black History: Bath brought sight to many”
Music Helps Young People Living With Blindness
03/02/2019 12:38PM
Doctors determined Levi Gobin was blind in the first year of his life. Now a seventh grader, Gobin does not let his blindness hold him back. Where the teenager's vision lacks, his ears make up for the difference. At a young age, Levi’s mother discovered that he had an ear for music.
“Music particularly, seeing him have that knack for it, it really gave me hope that he’s going to live a perfectly typical life,” said Levi’s mother. “Not just typical but extraordinary because he never ceases to amaze me. He can do just about anything a sighted kid can do and he’s very talented in so many ways. Whatever he wants to do he’s going to be able to do it.”
Throughout his short life, Mr. Gobin has had his share of struggles; being a blind person in a sighted world brings with it myriad complications. However, his motivation to continue moving forward has not waned. With the aid of music and other techniques, he can keep striving to achieve his goals.
SDCB offers assistive technology classes and vision rehabilitation training courses. Please contact us to learn more.
“Middle school student uses music to cope with blindness”
“Music particularly, seeing him have that knack for it, it really gave me hope that he’s going to live a perfectly typical life,” said Levi’s mother. “Not just typical but extraordinary because he never ceases to amaze me. He can do just about anything a sighted kid can do and he’s very talented in so many ways. Whatever he wants to do he’s going to be able to do it.”
Throughout his short life, Mr. Gobin has had his share of struggles; being a blind person in a sighted world brings with it myriad complications. However, his motivation to continue moving forward has not waned. With the aid of music and other techniques, he can keep striving to achieve his goals.
SDCB offers assistive technology classes and vision rehabilitation training courses. Please contact us to learn more.
“Middle school student uses music to cope with blindness”
Blindness Can Not Stand In the Way of This Middle Schooler
02/24/2019 07:49PM
Jasmine Jarrett is in middle school. She plays the trumpet in the school band and is on the honor roll. Moreover, Jasmine is a flyer for her school’s cheerleading team; a position which involves doing, exactly, what the name suggests. Her cheer squad hoists her into the air and then catches the young lady on the way down.
“I like to flip around,” Jasmine said.
Many cheerleaders can probably boast about a similar list of accomplishments. However, few can say that they achieve so many feats while legally blind. Ms. Jarrett can only see a couple of feet in front of her; she must hold her homework or exams two inches from her eyes to read it.
SDCB helps people living with vision loss learn how to build independence. We offer counseling, classes, support groups, and vision rehabilitation services. Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
"Rootstown Middle Schooler doesn’t let blindness slow her down"
“I like to flip around,” Jasmine said.
Many cheerleaders can probably boast about a similar list of accomplishments. However, few can say that they achieve so many feats while legally blind. Ms. Jarrett can only see a couple of feet in front of her; she must hold her homework or exams two inches from her eyes to read it.
SDCB helps people living with vision loss learn how to build independence. We offer counseling, classes, support groups, and vision rehabilitation services. Please contact us to learn more about our programs.
"Rootstown Middle Schooler doesn’t let blindness slow her down"
Heavy Smokers At Risk of Color Blindness
02/24/2019 07:46PM
Cigarettes are bad for humans in myriad ways; most people are aware of the dangers that can accompany smoking. Each year, researchers uncover new links between tobacco use and health conditions. While the majority of adults understand that smoking can result in cancer, new research suggests that those who smoke more than a pack of cigarettes a day could be playing with their vision.
A Rutgers University study found that heavy tobacco smoking can have harmful effects on "spatial and color vision" and may result in color blindness. The findings appear in the journal Psychiatry Research.
"Our results indicate excessive use of cigarettes, or chronic exposure to their compounds, affects visual discrimination, supporting the existence of overall deficits in visual processing with tobacco addiction," said Steven Silverstein from the Rutgers's Behavioral Health Care. "Cigarette smoke consists of numerous compounds that are harmful, and it has been linked to a reduction in the thickness of layers in the brain, and to brain lesions, involving areas such as the frontal lobe, which plays a role in voluntary movement and control of thinking, and a decrease in activity in the area of the brain that processes vision."
If you are struggling with vision loss, please know, you are not alone. The San Diego Center for the Blind can assist you in many ways; please click here to learn more.
“Smoking over 20 cigarettes a day can cause blindness”
A Rutgers University study found that heavy tobacco smoking can have harmful effects on "spatial and color vision" and may result in color blindness. The findings appear in the journal Psychiatry Research.
"Our results indicate excessive use of cigarettes, or chronic exposure to their compounds, affects visual discrimination, supporting the existence of overall deficits in visual processing with tobacco addiction," said Steven Silverstein from the Rutgers's Behavioral Health Care. "Cigarette smoke consists of numerous compounds that are harmful, and it has been linked to a reduction in the thickness of layers in the brain, and to brain lesions, involving areas such as the frontal lobe, which plays a role in voluntary movement and control of thinking, and a decrease in activity in the area of the brain that processes vision."
If you are struggling with vision loss, please know, you are not alone. The San Diego Center for the Blind can assist you in many ways; please click here to learn more.
“Smoking over 20 cigarettes a day can cause blindness”
Surprising Connection Between Blindness and Mental Illness
02/24/2019 07:44PM
The University of Western Australia conducted a study that led to some interesting findings which must be explored in more detail. Researchers combed through data from nearly 500,000 people in WA health registers between 1980 and 2001. They were unable to find even one person with congenital or early cortical blindness who also developed schizophrenia—or any other psychotic illness.
"It's very difficult to say what the exact mechanism is but we think that the protective effect for schizophrenia is related to some kind of compensatory cortical reorganisation in the brain that’s happening in response to having congenital or early cortical blindness," said lead author, Professor Vera Morgan. “As a result, some functions that are impaired in schizophrenia may actually be enhanced in people with congenital or early cortical blindness."
SDCBs vision rehabilitation program is recognized worldwide for helping individuals living with vision loss return to an independent lifestyle. Please contact us to learn more.
“Link between blindness and schizophrenia”
"It's very difficult to say what the exact mechanism is but we think that the protective effect for schizophrenia is related to some kind of compensatory cortical reorganisation in the brain that’s happening in response to having congenital or early cortical blindness," said lead author, Professor Vera Morgan. “As a result, some functions that are impaired in schizophrenia may actually be enhanced in people with congenital or early cortical blindness."
SDCBs vision rehabilitation program is recognized worldwide for helping individuals living with vision loss return to an independent lifestyle. Please contact us to learn more.
“Link between blindness and schizophrenia”
Surprising Connection Between Blindness and Mental Illness
02/24/2019 07:44PM
The University of Western Australia conducted a study that led to some interesting findings which must be explored in more detail. Researchers combed through data from nearly 500,000 people in WA health registers between 1980 and 2001. They were unable to find even one person with congenital or early cortical blindness who also developed schizophrenia—or any other psychotic illness.
"It's very difficult to say what the exact mechanism is but we think that the protective effect for schizophrenia is related to some kind of compensatory cortical reorganisation in the brain that’s happening in response to having congenital or early cortical blindness," said lead author, Professor Vera Morgan. “As a result, some functions that are impaired in schizophrenia may actually be enhanced in people with congenital or early cortical blindness."
SDCBs vision rehabilitation program is recognized worldwide for helping individuals living with vision loss return to an independent lifestyle. Please contact us to learn more.
“Link between blindness and schizophrenia”
"It's very difficult to say what the exact mechanism is but we think that the protective effect for schizophrenia is related to some kind of compensatory cortical reorganisation in the brain that’s happening in response to having congenital or early cortical blindness," said lead author, Professor Vera Morgan. “As a result, some functions that are impaired in schizophrenia may actually be enhanced in people with congenital or early cortical blindness."
SDCBs vision rehabilitation program is recognized worldwide for helping individuals living with vision loss return to an independent lifestyle. Please contact us to learn more.
“Link between blindness and schizophrenia”
Curing Color Blindness
02/17/2019 02:54AM
While male squirrel monkeys are not the best at seeing color, they could help scientists find a cure for human color blindness or color deficiency. The little monkeys are protanopes; they only see medium and short wavelengths of light, blues and greens and yellow; they have no receptor for reddish hues.
Jay Neitz, a color vision researcher at the University of Washington and his wife Maureen, a geneticist, created a serum to help spider monkeys see colors they have never seen before. But, a lot has to go right.
“We’ve been working on ways to improve the efficiency,” Neitz says.
SDCB’s services help the visually impaired live – daily – doing many of the things they did while sighted. Please contact us to learn more.
“Monkeys with superpower eyes could help cure color blindness”
Jay Neitz, a color vision researcher at the University of Washington and his wife Maureen, a geneticist, created a serum to help spider monkeys see colors they have never seen before. But, a lot has to go right.
“We’ve been working on ways to improve the efficiency,” Neitz says.
SDCB’s services help the visually impaired live – daily – doing many of the things they did while sighted. Please contact us to learn more.
“Monkeys with superpower eyes could help cure color blindness”
Curing Color Blindness
02/17/2019 02:54AM
While male squirrel monkeys are not the best at seeing color, they could help scientists find a cure for human color blindness or color deficiency. The little monkeys are protanopes; they only see medium and short wavelengths of light, blues and greens and yellow; they have no receptor for reddish hues.
Jay Neitz, a color vision researcher at the University of Washington and his wife Maureen, a geneticist, created a serum to help spider monkeys see colors they have never seen before. But, a lot has to go right.
“We’ve been working on ways to improve the efficiency,” Neitz says.
SDCB’s services help the visually impaired live – daily – doing many of the things they did while sighted. Please contact us to learn more.
“Monkeys with superpower eyes could help cure color blindness”
Jay Neitz, a color vision researcher at the University of Washington and his wife Maureen, a geneticist, created a serum to help spider monkeys see colors they have never seen before. But, a lot has to go right.
“We’ve been working on ways to improve the efficiency,” Neitz says.
SDCB’s services help the visually impaired live – daily – doing many of the things they did while sighted. Please contact us to learn more.
“Monkeys with superpower eyes could help cure color blindness”
Shame and Denial About Blindness
02/17/2019 02:50AM
“Books and Coffee” is an annual event that invites speakers to discuss books with students. This year, English professor Maren Linett – director of the critical disability studies program at Purdue – talked about, “Have Dog, Will Travel,” by Stephen Kuusisto.
The memoir is about Kuusisto’s life and him coming to terms to terms with living with blindness—in a less than accommodating society.
Professor Linett says that “For Kuusisto, the most disabling feature of his childhood was not his blindness, but his family’s denial of and shame about his blindness.” She adds that “This kind of disabling environment is what keeps people expending enormous psychological and physical effort to pass for ‘normal.’”
Please contact SDCB if you or someone you know is experiencing blindness.
“Living with a disability in a world that stigmatizes being disabled”
The memoir is about Kuusisto’s life and him coming to terms to terms with living with blindness—in a less than accommodating society.
Professor Linett says that “For Kuusisto, the most disabling feature of his childhood was not his blindness, but his family’s denial of and shame about his blindness.” She adds that “This kind of disabling environment is what keeps people expending enormous psychological and physical effort to pass for ‘normal.’”
Please contact SDCB if you or someone you know is experiencing blindness.
“Living with a disability in a world that stigmatizes being disabled”
Shame and Denial About Blindness
02/17/2019 02:50AM
“Books and Coffee” is an annual event that invites speakers to discuss books with students. This year, English professor Maren Linett – director of the critical disability studies program at Purdue – talked about, “Have Dog, Will Travel,” by Stephen Kuusisto.
The memoir is about Kuusisto’s life and him coming to terms to terms with living with blindness—in a less than accommodating society.
Professor Linett says that “For Kuusisto, the most disabling feature of his childhood was not his blindness, but his family’s denial of and shame about his blindness.” She adds that “This kind of disabling environment is what keeps people expending enormous psychological and physical effort to pass for ‘normal.’”
Please contact SDCB if you or someone you know is experiencing blindness.
“Living with a disability in a world that stigmatizes being disabled”
The memoir is about Kuusisto’s life and him coming to terms to terms with living with blindness—in a less than accommodating society.
Professor Linett says that “For Kuusisto, the most disabling feature of his childhood was not his blindness, but his family’s denial of and shame about his blindness.” She adds that “This kind of disabling environment is what keeps people expending enormous psychological and physical effort to pass for ‘normal.’”
Please contact SDCB if you or someone you know is experiencing blindness.
“Living with a disability in a world that stigmatizes being disabled”
Star Shares Personal Story About Blindness from Wet AMD
02/17/2019 02:47AM
Since 1976, Deidre Hall has played the character of Dr. Marlene Evans on the beloved “soap opera” Days of our Lives. While she isn’t a physician off-camera, Hall does concern herself with medical problems affecting real people. In observance of Low Vision Awareness Month (February), the daytime television star is taking the opportunity to discuss her mother’s experience with blindness resulting from Wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
“I think we should all have concerns for ourselves,” said Hall. “People tend to confuse wearing glasses with what AMD is. Age-related macular degeneration is a disease, and 1.5 million people in the U.S. are impacted by it, and it causes blindness. So, it’s a huge issue for people. As we all go through what would I rather lose, my ability to speak, my eyesight, my ability to hear, you always land on what would I do without my eyesight, and to take it for granted is a serious mistake.”
SDCB offers counseling, training, community outreach programs, and more. Please contact us for more information.
“Days of our Lives Star Deidre Hall Wants to Help Prevent Blindness from Wet AMD”
“I think we should all have concerns for ourselves,” said Hall. “People tend to confuse wearing glasses with what AMD is. Age-related macular degeneration is a disease, and 1.5 million people in the U.S. are impacted by it, and it causes blindness. So, it’s a huge issue for people. As we all go through what would I rather lose, my ability to speak, my eyesight, my ability to hear, you always land on what would I do without my eyesight, and to take it for granted is a serious mistake.”
SDCB offers counseling, training, community outreach programs, and more. Please contact us for more information.
“Days of our Lives Star Deidre Hall Wants to Help Prevent Blindness from Wet AMD”
Blindness Did Not Keep Mikayla Resh from Inspiring Others
02/08/2019 04:58PM
Mikayla Resh experienced severe brain damage at birth; her trauma resulted in multiple disabilities including blindness, hearing loss, and spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy. Sadly, Resh passed away on January 30th at the age of 24. In life, she served as an inspiration to others who are impacted by disability; she and her mother would visit schools and discuss the importance of inclusion for people with disabilities.
Mikayla’s mother founded Mikayla’s Voice, a nonprofit organization with the aim of empowering children with disabilities and educating others about diversity and inclusion.
"I promised her before she died that I would make sure that her voice was louder than ever," Kimberly Resh said.
SDCB’s Assistive Technology Center and Store have the tools to help you become independent. Please contact us to learn more.
“Mikayla Resh, an inspiration for people with disabilities, has died. Family and friends vow to keep her voice alive.”
Mikayla’s mother founded Mikayla’s Voice, a nonprofit organization with the aim of empowering children with disabilities and educating others about diversity and inclusion.
"I promised her before she died that I would make sure that her voice was louder than ever," Kimberly Resh said.
SDCB’s Assistive Technology Center and Store have the tools to help you become independent. Please contact us to learn more.
“Mikayla Resh, an inspiration for people with disabilities, has died. Family and friends vow to keep her voice alive.”
Blindness Did Not Keep Mikayla Resh from Inspiring Others
02/08/2019 04:58PM
Mikayla Resh experienced severe brain damage at birth; her trauma resulted in multiple disabilities including blindness, hearing loss, and spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy. Sadly, Resh passed away on January 30th at the age of 24. In life, she served as an inspiration to others who are impacted by disability; she and her mother would visit schools and discuss the importance of inclusion for people with disabilities.
Mikayla’s mother founded Mikayla’s Voice, a nonprofit organization with the aim of empowering children with disabilities and educating others about diversity and inclusion.
"I promised her before she died that I would make sure that her voice was louder than ever," Kimberly Resh said.
SDCB’s Assistive Technology Center and Store have the tools to help you become independent. Please contact us to learn more.
“Mikayla Resh, an inspiration for people with disabilities, has died. Family and friends vow to keep her voice alive.”
Mikayla’s mother founded Mikayla’s Voice, a nonprofit organization with the aim of empowering children with disabilities and educating others about diversity and inclusion.
"I promised her before she died that I would make sure that her voice was louder than ever," Kimberly Resh said.
SDCB’s Assistive Technology Center and Store have the tools to help you become independent. Please contact us to learn more.
“Mikayla Resh, an inspiration for people with disabilities, has died. Family and friends vow to keep her voice alive.”
Considering Child Rearing While Living With Vision Loss
02/08/2019 04:56PM
Most people living with vision loss eventually have children; the rates are only slightly lower than sighted individuals. However, many blind people contemplate if child rearing makes sense. Such a person’s concerns often stem from discouragement from other sighted people. While the opinions of the misinformed should never stand in someone’s way, several things are beneficial to consider before starting down the path to mother or fatherhood. Such as your mobility, home management, problem-solving, and advocacy skills.
Please contact SDCB to find out more about all the ways we can help you reach your own highest level of independence.
“So, You’re Blind, and You Want to Have Kids”
Please contact SDCB to find out more about all the ways we can help you reach your own highest level of independence.
“So, You’re Blind, and You Want to Have Kids”
Considering Child Rearing While Living With Vision Loss
02/08/2019 04:56PM
Most people living with vision loss eventually have children; the rates are only slightly lower than sighted individuals. However, many blind people contemplate if child rearing makes sense. Such a person’s concerns often stem from discouragement from other sighted people. While the opinions of the misinformed should never stand in someone’s way, several things are beneficial to consider before starting down the path to mother or fatherhood. Such as your mobility, home management, problem-solving, and advocacy skills.
Please contact SDCB to find out more about all the ways we can help you reach your own highest level of independence.
“So, You’re Blind, and You Want to Have Kids”
Please contact SDCB to find out more about all the ways we can help you reach your own highest level of independence.
“So, You’re Blind, and You Want to Have Kids”
Color Blindness Has An Impact On The World
02/08/2019 04:55PM
Color vision deficiency or color blindness affects millions of people. Most people living with the condition have trouble differentiating between specific shades of reds and greens, or blues and yellows, according to the American Optometric Association. While some people are born with the condition, the condition can arise from disorders like glaucoma or injuries.
A retired University of Maine at Fort Kent forestry and environmental studies professor wrote a chapter about color vision deficiency in a new textbook “Handbook of the Changing World Language Map.” Professor David Hobbins has had an interest in this subject matter since the 1980s. But, he said:
“What really prompted me to study color vision deficiency was in 2008 when I handed a color image to my class in the field and they had to do some interpreting.”
“One of my students said, ‘Dave, I can’t read it,’” Hobbins said. “The labels (on the handouts) were red on a green forest. That got me to starting [sic] to read about color vision deficiency.”
Do you want to live as independently as possible? Please contact SDCB to learn more about our services.
“Retired UMFK professor shares color blindness findings in textbook”
A retired University of Maine at Fort Kent forestry and environmental studies professor wrote a chapter about color vision deficiency in a new textbook “Handbook of the Changing World Language Map.” Professor David Hobbins has had an interest in this subject matter since the 1980s. But, he said:
“What really prompted me to study color vision deficiency was in 2008 when I handed a color image to my class in the field and they had to do some interpreting.”
“One of my students said, ‘Dave, I can’t read it,’” Hobbins said. “The labels (on the handouts) were red on a green forest. That got me to starting [sic] to read about color vision deficiency.”
Do you want to live as independently as possible? Please contact SDCB to learn more about our services.
“Retired UMFK professor shares color blindness findings in textbook”
Color Blindness Has An Impact On The World
02/08/2019 04:55PM
Color vision deficiency or color blindness affects millions of people. Most people living with the condition have trouble differentiating between specific shades of reds and greens, or blues and yellows, according to the American Optometric Association. While some people are born with the condition, the condition can arise from disorders like glaucoma or injuries.
A retired University of Maine at Fort Kent forestry and environmental studies professor wrote a chapter about color vision deficiency in a new textbook “Handbook of the Changing World Language Map.” Professor David Hobbins has had an interest in this subject matter since the 1980s. But, he said:
“What really prompted me to study color vision deficiency was in 2008 when I handed a color image to my class in the field and they had to do some interpreting.”
“One of my students said, ‘Dave, I can’t read it,’” Hobbins said. “The labels (on the handouts) were red on a green forest. That got me to starting [sic] to read about color vision deficiency.”
Do you want to live as independently as possible? Please contact SDCB to learn more about our services.
“Retired UMFK professor shares color blindness findings in textbook”
A retired University of Maine at Fort Kent forestry and environmental studies professor wrote a chapter about color vision deficiency in a new textbook “Handbook of the Changing World Language Map.” Professor David Hobbins has had an interest in this subject matter since the 1980s. But, he said:
“What really prompted me to study color vision deficiency was in 2008 when I handed a color image to my class in the field and they had to do some interpreting.”
“One of my students said, ‘Dave, I can’t read it,’” Hobbins said. “The labels (on the handouts) were red on a green forest. That got me to starting [sic] to read about color vision deficiency.”
Do you want to live as independently as possible? Please contact SDCB to learn more about our services.
“Retired UMFK professor shares color blindness findings in textbook”
Wrestling With Retinitis Pigmentosa
02/02/2019 12:23PM
It is safe to say that participating in any sport, blind, is not without added difficulty. A 16-year-old sophomore in high school acutely understands that reality but does not eschew a challenge. Agie Mai Sowe is ever-ready to try new things, in spite of being considered legally blind. The young athlete is a member of her school’s wrestling team. Sowe is almost entirely blind in her left eye, and her vision is failing in her right eye.
“I have this eye condition called retinitis pigmentosa, which is where you lose sight at the back of your eye,” she said after a recent practice in the Cardinals’ wrestling room. “As you get older, the light slowly starts fading away.”
Please contact SDCB if you or someone you know is struggling with vision loss. We offer many services that can help you find your way.
“Sun Prairie sophomore wrestler Agie Mai Sowe doesn't let blindness slow her down”
“I have this eye condition called retinitis pigmentosa, which is where you lose sight at the back of your eye,” she said after a recent practice in the Cardinals’ wrestling room. “As you get older, the light slowly starts fading away.”
Please contact SDCB if you or someone you know is struggling with vision loss. We offer many services that can help you find your way.
“Sun Prairie sophomore wrestler Agie Mai Sowe doesn't let blindness slow her down”
Treating Visual Impairment In Children
02/02/2019 12:21PM
Diseases of the eye are not reserved for the elderly, children also struggle with blindness and visual impairment. Amblyopia, astigmatism, color blindness, Strabismus, and Pediatric glaucoma are just some of the eye conditions that can impact children’s eyes.
While such disorders can affect life quality, early intervention can help. The American Academy of Ophthalmology points out that early diagnosis and treatment are critical to improving eye health and assisting children to see better. In some cases, treatment can even restore sight.
At SDCB, we help adults, with blindness or vision impairment, to be independent. Please reach out to us to learn more about our services.
“Early diagnosis, treatment key to improving eye health in children”
While such disorders can affect life quality, early intervention can help. The American Academy of Ophthalmology points out that early diagnosis and treatment are critical to improving eye health and assisting children to see better. In some cases, treatment can even restore sight.
At SDCB, we help adults, with blindness or vision impairment, to be independent. Please reach out to us to learn more about our services.
“Early diagnosis, treatment key to improving eye health in children”
Treating Visual Impairment In Children
02/02/2019 12:21PM
Diseases of the eye are not reserved for the elderly, children also struggle with blindness and visual impairment. Amblyopia, astigmatism, color blindness, Strabismus, and Pediatric glaucoma are just some of the eye conditions that can impact children’s eyes.
While such disorders can affect life quality, early intervention can help. The American Academy of Ophthalmology points out that early diagnosis and treatment are critical to improving eye health and assisting children to see better. In some cases, treatment can even restore sight.
At SDCB, we help adults, with blindness or vision impairment, to be independent. Please reach out to us to learn more about our services.
“Early diagnosis, treatment key to improving eye health in children”
While such disorders can affect life quality, early intervention can help. The American Academy of Ophthalmology points out that early diagnosis and treatment are critical to improving eye health and assisting children to see better. In some cases, treatment can even restore sight.
At SDCB, we help adults, with blindness or vision impairment, to be independent. Please reach out to us to learn more about our services.
“Early diagnosis, treatment key to improving eye health in children”
Active and Able Despite Blindness
02/02/2019 12:19PM
Those who enjoy watching the Winter Olympics are familiar with the unique and unusual sport known as curling. People who have had an opportunity to try it know that it is more challenging than it appears; and, that is with perfect vision. Now, imagine engaging in the activity living with blindness.
Louise Gillis, 70, is almost entirely blind and yet, she curls every Monday and Wednesday at the Sydney Curling Club. She also paddles with the Sydney Harbour Dragon Boat Club and volunteers with the Special Olympics.
“There is life after vision loss,” said Gillis, “We’re active people. We are able. We’re showing our abilities, not our disabilities.”
San Diego Center for The Blind can be your guide to living independently. Please contact us to learn more.
“Blindness doesn’t stop Sydney senior from living active life”
Louise Gillis, 70, is almost entirely blind and yet, she curls every Monday and Wednesday at the Sydney Curling Club. She also paddles with the Sydney Harbour Dragon Boat Club and volunteers with the Special Olympics.
“There is life after vision loss,” said Gillis, “We’re active people. We are able. We’re showing our abilities, not our disabilities.”
San Diego Center for The Blind can be your guide to living independently. Please contact us to learn more.
“Blindness doesn’t stop Sydney senior from living active life”