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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Soaring as a Visionary Leader at Southwest
Beacon StoriesJames Ashworth, Vice President of Customer Care at Southwest Airlines, has dedicated his career to the airline industry and his advocacy for the visually impaired, driven by his personal experience with rod-cone dystrophy. His leadership and commitment to supporting the blind and visually impaired community have led to significant contributions, including employment initiatives and technological advancements to aid those with vision loss.
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Perseverance of a Six-Time Paralympian
Beacon StoriesAs a six-time goalball Paralympian, Lisa has turned her progressive vision loss into a powerful source of strength and inspiration. Through her incredible journey—overcoming barriers, achieving five Paralympic medals, and becoming a passionate disabilities advocate—Lisa exemplifies how embracing life’s challenges can lead to extraordinary success and personal growth.
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Lead With Luna: Meredyth’s Journey With Her Guide Dog
Beacon StoriesIn honor of National Dog Day, we’re celebrating the work of guide dogs and raising awareness about the importance of guide dog services by sharing Meredyth’s story. Her guide dog, Luna, has greatly improved her independence and quality of life, showcasing the significant benefits of guide dog services for those who are blind or have low vision.
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A Para Triathlete's Journey With Stargardt
Beacon StoriesThis exclusive Beacon Story podcast features WROC’s Adam Chodak and professional Para triathlete Deb Chucoski as they discuss living with Stargardt disease and the amazing achievements of those who refuse to let it define them.
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Beacon Stories
Maverick, a determined and adventurous 10-year-old, was diagnosed with X-linked retinoschisis (XLRS) at age six, which led his family to find support and resources through the Foundation Fighting Blindness. Since his diagnosis, Mav continues to pursue his passions in sports and outdoor activities, inspiring his family with his resilience and positive attitude.
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Woodburning Gives DeafBlind Artist Purpose
Beacon StoriesKrista Webb has embraced woodburning as a creative outlet to cope with her progressive vision loss due to Usher syndrome. And Krista has built a supportive community on Instagram, where she shares her art and advocates for the blindness community.
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Barry Smith and Emily Harding Smith
Beacon Stories“I have spent a lifetime attempting to prove what I can do, which has allowed Emily and I to be in a place where we can help. Please consider joining us.“
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A Vision of Hope and Light: Fai and Patrick’s Journey with the Foundation Fighting Blindness
Beacon Stories“Legacy giving is about carrying the torch for future generations,” Fai shares. “It’s about ensuring that one day, we can all celebrate victories over vision loss together.”
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Blind Guy Biking: Enduring the Trails for Stargardt
Beacon StoriesChris Smith, a mountain bike enthusiast who was diagnosed with Stargardt disease, transformed his bike into a lifeline after losing his driver’s license. Now, 15 years later, he’s tackling the grueling 2,745-mile Tour Divide race while raising funds for the Foundation Fighting Blindness.
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Capturing Life Through A Deaf-Blind Lens
Beacon StoriesBrian Bossert has turned his passion for photography into a successful career. As a commercial photographer and videographer living with Usher syndrome, Brian has a unique perspective and is using his creativity to inspire others as he shares his vision through photos and videos.
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