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
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Cleanlogic Co-Founder’s Inspiration Comes From His Mom
Beacon StoriesIn honor of Mother’s Day, we’re sharing a special Beacon Story featuring Isaac Shapiro, co-founder of Cleanlogic. Isaac’s mother, Bea, lost her vision at only seven years old but went on to become an entrepreneur and help others in the blind and visually impaired community through adaptive technology.
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“Great Vision Does Not Require Great Sight”
Beacon StoriesKenyetta has worked to help others through the nonprofit sector for over 25 years, despite being diagnosed with Stargardt disease at the age of 31. Kenyetta is now the chief operating officer of REACH Riverside Development Corporation and has been recognized for her career achievements by many.
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“The Only Disability is a Bad Attitude”
Beacon StoriesBorn with LCA, Anthony began wrestling in the seventh grade, continued through high school, and eventually became the subject of a documentary about his life as a blind wrestler. He then received a life-changing call from the United States Olympics Committee, asking him to compete on the Paralympic Judo Team.
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Beacon Stories
In her own words, Bari shares her perspective with having a father and brother affected with retinitis pigmentosa and how she’s now helping to make a difference to end blinding diseases.
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Advocating for the Foundation Through Professional Outreach
Beacon StoriesAs a longtime supporter and advocate for the Foundation Fighting Blindness, Lora has recently begun working with the Professional Outreach team. Lora’s work helps eye care professionals in the Philadelphia region provide vital resources for their patients with inherited retinal diseases.
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Beacon Stories
Foundation Arizona chapter president Fai Mo is sharing, in his own words, his experiences with being diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa and how he found comfort in the Foundation Fighting Blindness community.
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Beacon Stories
Sean was diagnosed with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in his 40s. Now Sean is using his AMD as an opportunity to educate others about the entire spectrum of blinding diseases while fundraising for the Foundation Fighting Blindness.
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Beacon Stories DIY Campaign Success Stories
Adopted into a musical family, Miles Hoyt picked up a guitar at just four years old, and he hasn’t stopped playing since. Now Miles, who has Stargardt disease, and his parents are using music to bring their community together to raise funds for blinding diseases with their DIY fundraiser, Smiles for Miles.
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Ambitious Entrepreneur Won’t Let Stargardt Stop Her
Beacon StoriesBeverley is a go-getter who does not let her Stargardt disease get in the way of living her life to the fullest. When Beverley isn’t hard at work as an entrepreneur, she enjoys spending time with friends, her dog, Loki, and is also an active leader of the Foundation’s Boston Chapter.
