February 2022 eNews
Expanding Horizons
Lighthouse first interviewed author and Lighthouse client, Ray Hazel, in the fall of 2020. Since that time, Ray has continued to work and train with Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center. He has also been busy with speaking engagements, researching, and writing his latest novel. We recently sat down with Ray to catch up and to talk about vision loss, writing, and the positive impact Lighthouse has made on his life.
Click here to read or watch other stories of hope and empowerment
Click play on the video below to watch and hear Ray’s story.
To read more client stories, visit
https://lighthouseeducationcenter.org/programs/seeing-beyond-reflection/
Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center works with children, teens, adults and seniors affected by vision loss to gain independence and self-sufficiency. Our programs and services are provided at NO COST to every person we serve. These services are provided at NO COST because of individuals like you. We hope you will continue to donate to the Lighthouse by clicking the donate button.
Rays of Light, Service for Sight
The 28th annual “Rays of Light, Service for Sight” Luncheon and Fashion Show benefiting Southeastern Guide Dogs, Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center and the Delta Gamma Foundation was held recently at the Sarasota Yacht Club.
Lighthouse Development Associate, Nicole Mobley, spoke on behalf of the organization while Lighthouse client and Delta Gamma alumnae, Gigi Wiegman, modeled and walked the catwalk during the fashion show.
The Delta Gamma Foundation functions as the philanthropic arm of the fraternity. The foundation has been dedicated to sight preservation since 1936, when a member who was blind asked the fraternity to consider aiding the visually impaired.
To schedule a Lighthouse presentation, please contact Nicole Mobley at nicole.mobley@LighthouseEducationCenter.org or (941) 359-1404 ext. 702.
February is AMD & Low Vision Awareness Month
Did you know February is Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Low Vision Awareness Month? AMD is the leading cause of low vision and blindness in Americans age 60 years and older and affects 1.6 million Americans. To maintain healthy eyes visit an eye doctor regularly, eat healthy, stay active, control blood pressure, and protect your eyes from the sun.
If you have late AMD in one eye only, you may not notice any changes in your overall vision. With the other eye seeing clearly, you may still be able to drive, read, and see fine details. However, having late AMD in one eye means you are at increased risk for late AMD in your other eye. If you notice distortion or blurred vision, even if it doesn’t have much effect on your daily life, consult an eye care professional.
Lighthouse’s Own Receives New Certification
Lighthouse Vocational Rehabilitation Career Specialist, Judi Boylan, recently completed training and was awarded her 2022 ACVREP certification from Florida Instructional Materials Center for the Visually Impaired. This certification is approved by the Florida Department of Education, Bureau of Exceptional Student Education.
The program was offered by Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) based on Judi’s previous Certified Assistive Technology Instructional Specialist for Individuals with Vision Impairments (CATIS) certification.
Monday, February 14 is Valentine’s Day
Monday, February 21 is Presidents’ Day
Shop Peepers Online
Take advantage of your opportunity to purchase your Pocket Magnifier at a fantastic discount.
CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
Peepers Online Low Vision Store is the #1 authorized seller of Eschenbach electronic magnifiers, selling more than any retail store in Southwest Florida. Our expert technician is available by appointment only to assist you with a personalized hands-on evaluation for your magnification needs.
Email: Peepers@LighthouseEducationCenter.org
Phone: (941) 359-1404
Ready to be a Part of Something Big?
Support children, teens, adults and seniors affected by vision loss! With a donation of as little as $10 a month, you can provide blind and visually impaired individuals at NO COST with programs and services focused on adjusting to their loss of vision, mobility and white cane training, computer, tablet and mobile phone training, independence and advocacy, job services readiness and so much more. As a member of the Sustainers Club, your monthly donation will help Lighthouse build our community.
Join us at https://lighthouseeducationcenter.org/donate/monthly-giving/ or contact the Development Team at (941) 359-1404 ext. 702.
A State of Vision License Plate Supports Lighthouse
Support the blind and visually impaired community regain independence by purchasing “A State of Vision” license plate when you renew your auto tag. Funds from the sale of “A State of Vision” license plates are distributed to Florida Agencies Serving the Blind, Inc., which funds direct-support services to blind and visually impaired people. Specialty tag gift certificates are also available.
This license plate is a reminder to people on the road of our mission of hope and empowerment for the vision impaired. The Florida-inspired colors will also look great on your car! Information is on the website: https://myfloridaspecialtyplate.com/a-state-of-vision.html. Purchase your license plate today!
When You Smile, We all Smile!
While shopping on Amazon, remember to to purchase your goods through Smile.Amazon.com and select Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center as your designated charity. Shopping through AmazonSmile provides a portion of your purchases to be donated to the Lighthouse.
Connect With Us!
www.LighthouseEducationCenter.org | info@LighthouseEducationCenter.org
941-359-1404