South Carolina Chapter
Chapter Contact
Bailey Bostelman
Chapters@FightingBlindness.org
I enjoy working together with other South Carolina chapter members to connect individuals in our state who are blind or visually impaired with much needed resources, community and information on medical research advancements. It is a true pleasure to be part of this valuable community!
The Chapter Network has Three Areas of Focus
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EDUCATION. Learn the latest in blinding retinal disease research.
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RESOURCES. Get connected to local community resources and specialists.
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REVENUE. Raise funds through VisionWalks, dinners, DIY fundraisers, and more.
South Carolina Chapter Leadership
| Name | Role |
| Heather Edwards | President |
| Brian Smelzer | Vice President |
| Carolyn Strauss | Resource Chair |
| Karen Jones | AIDE Chair |
Looking for a chance to make a real difference? The South Carolina Chapter is searching for passionate individuals who want to drive research for treatments and cures for blinding diseases. If you're enthusiastic about our mission and eager to be a champion in the community, we'd love to have you on our Chapter Leadership Team! Please contact Bailey Bostelmanto learn more.
Chapter Events
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South Carolina Lunch and Learn
- Oct 8, 2026
- 12:00 p.m. (EDT)
- Virtual
Community EventJoin Us for Lunch and Learn
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Quarterly Vision Webinar: Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)
- Oct 17, 2026
- 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. (EDT)
- Virtual
Foundation EventLearn more about Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)
Make a Difference Monday
Drink Great Beer. Support a Great Cause.
Looking for the perfect way to kick off your week? Join us every single Monday this July at Tidal Creek Brewhouse for Make a Difference Monday!
We are teaming up for a month of community, fun, and giving back. Each week features a different event, so there is always something new to experience. Best of all, $1 from every beer sold between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM will be donated directly back to us.
Whether you are catching up with friends, meeting the team, or just enjoying a local brew, your happy hour will have a real impact right here in our community.
Can't make it this week? Don't worry! We will be there every Monday all month long. Grab a pint, pull up a chair, and let’s make a difference together.
We can't wait to see you there!
Additional Resources
- Find a doctor who sees patients with inherited retinal diseases
- Learn more about our Vision Warrior program and do-it-yourself events