Inspirational Voices from the Fighting Blindness Community

Being diagnosed with anything can be hard, and you certainly will go through a range of emotions. You are not alone. Many have been in your shoes and have dealt with their diagnosis in different ways. Some feel a sense of relief when they can share their stories with others who are going through a similar situation.

The Foundation Fighting Blindness is a beacon for those affected by blinding retinal diseases. With our Beacon Stories, we share individual’s journeys with their disease and how their drive fuels them to pursue their passions. Not only do we find their stories aspirational, we believe these individuals are true beacons of strength, champions of courage, and advocates for hope. We hope these stories provide you with light that will get you through the darkness. Collectively, we are stronger together – as a community.

Do you have a story you'd like to share with the Fighting Blindness community? Let us know at Marketing@FightingBlindness.org.

Beacon Stories

  • May 12, 2025

    A Mother’s Vision of a More Inclusive World

    This Mother’s Day, we’re celebrating Krystle — a beacon of creativity, courage, and community. Legally blind mom Krystle Boateng couldn’t find children’s books she could comfortably read to her sons, so she created her own. Through her publishing company, Inside Ability Book, she’s redefining accessibility in children’s books and empowering individuals and families navigating vision loss and other disabilities.

    Beacon Stories Wellness
  • May 5, 2025

    Seeing Beyond GA

    Rob Howden’s journey with AMD and GA truly shows that individuals can take control of their vision loss journey and find strength within their community. His story emphasizes the importance of proactive treatment, taking care of your mental health, and the invaluable support of friends and neighbors.

    Beacon Stories Wellness
  • Apr 25, 2025

    Celebrating National DNA Day with Dr. Benjamin Bakall

    April 25 is National DNA Day, commemorating the completion of the Human Genome Project and the discovery of DNA’s double helix. To celebrate, we’re spotlighting Dr. Benjamin Bakall, a retinal specialist and ophthalmologist at Associated Retina Consultants in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Bakall’s dedication to genetics and patient care highlights the importance of genetic testing in advancing treatments and cures for inherited retinal diseases.

    Beacon Stories
  • Mar 24, 2025

    The Power of Perspective

    Danielle has been navigating her retinitis pigmentosa for half of her life, but she’s never let it hold her back. Her journey with RP underscores the importance of perspective, community of her friends and family’s support, and the relentless pursuit of treatments and cures.

    Beacon Stories
  • Mar 10, 2025

    Building Bonds: Joy and Representation in Legos

    In her own words, Chloe shares how her bond with her brother Elliot has grown stronger over the years through their shared love of building Legos. Since Elliot’s diagnosis with Stargardt disease, he has faced significant vision loss, but they discovered accessible online Lego instructions, allowing them to continue their cherished hobby. Chloe hopes for a more accessible and understanding world where Elliot and others with vision loss can thrive.

    Beacon Stories
  • Feb 24, 2025

    The Power of 3D Printing for the Blind and Visually Impaired

    Edis, a blind IT consultant and assistive technology teacher in Denmark, has harnessed the power of technology to navigate his life. His journey led him to create Accessible3D, a platform providing 3D printed models to help the blind and visually impaired experience the world in new, tactile ways.

    Beacon Stories
  • Feb 10, 2025

    Pioneering Delivery Strategies for Blinding Diseases Therapy and Inspiring Women in Science

    International Day of Women and Girls in Science is celebrated globally to recognize the critical role women play in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. To honor this vital day, the Foundation is thrilled to spotlight Dr. Renee Ryals, PhD, a remarkable scientist at the Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University.

    Beacon Stories
  • Jan 27, 2025

    Eva Lou Schroeder Watson's Enduring Legacy

    Eva Watson’s life was marked by her dedication to advancing medical research for blinding diseases, and her generous bequest to the Foundation Fighting Blindness ensures her advocacy will endure. Her story highlights the profound impact of her contributions to driving treatments and cures for blinding diseases.

    Beacon Stories
  • Dec 16, 2024

    Staying True to Music, Family, and Advocacy

    Music duo Andrew & Polly have earned a GRAMMY nomination for their children’s album “Ahhhhh!” while also championing disability awareness and inclusivity. Andrew’s experience with Stargardt disease fuels their advocacy, inspiring others through their music, podcast, and dedication to research and community support.

    Beacon Stories
  • Nov 14, 2024

    Celebrating Genetic Counselor Awareness Day with Kristy Lee

    On Genetic Counselor Awareness Day, we celebrate the invaluable contributions of genetic counselors, whose dedication guides individuals through the complexities of genetic information, offering support, and fostering hope. We’re highlighting Kristy Lee, MS, CGC, whose work brings clarity for countless patients and families navigating genetic diseases.

    Beacon Stories