Philadelphia Chapter

Contact Info

Michael Valenti, Chapter President

philadelphia@fightingblindness.org

FoundationFightingBlindnessPhiladelphia

Chapter President's Message

Welcome to the Philly Chapter!

Philadelphia is a global hub of research and medical care for those with inherited retinal diseases, and the Foundation Fighting Blindness is proud to have a strong presence in the City of Brotherly Love. Every October over 800 walkers join in our annual VisionWalk to raise money to fund the research to find a cure for Inherited Retinal Diseases. The Philadelphia chapter alone consistently raises over $150,000 annually to support retinal research. We also host a Research Panel in the Spring where doctors and researchers on the front lines provide updates and answer questions from attendees. During the year, we have small gatherings and fundraisers hosted by members throughout the greater Philadelphia area.

As Chapter President and someone with Usher Syndrome/Retinitis Pigmentosa, my personal goal is to connect those affected with the support and resources needed. I'm always happy to help however I can. Although there a many retinal diseases that manifest themselves in unique ways, we all face similar challenges and share a common bond. 

For more information about the Philadelphia Chapter and/or local resources, please email me at mikefightingblindness@gmail.com. 

Sincerely,
Mike Valenti
Philadelphia Chapter President

Chapter Events

  • Jan 26, 2022 EST Event

    Philadelphia Virtual Speaker Series

    This meeting will feature a presentation by Lauren J. Lieberman Ph.D., Director of Camp Abilities.

  • Mar 6, 2022 EST Event

    Hope from Home – A United Night to Save Sight

    Experience incredible entertainment, amazing auction items, and the opportunity to connect with others through our live Party Rooms, while supporting the mission of the Foundation Fighting Blindness – all from the comfort of your own home.

  • Jun 17, 2022 EST Event

    VISIONS 2022 Conference

    VISIONS 2022, the national conference of the Foundation Fighting Blindness, is a one-of-a-kind event in which individuals who are visually impaired, and their families, have the opportunity to hear about exciting advancements in blindness research.

Foundation Contact

Bailey Bostelman

Director, Chapter Engagement, East