Search
Selected Filter
Filter Results
Displaying 111–120 of 230 diseases results
-
Aug 21, 2023
Life as a Teen with Retinitis Pigmentosa
Beacon StoriesAt a mere 15 years old, Ava Ruggiero’s world shifted when she received a diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa. As Ava continues to find balance as a student and athlete, she discusses the challenges of navigating her diagnosis alongside her parents, Joseph and Stephanie.
-
Aug 7, 2023
Talented Singer Overcomes Blindness with the Power of Melodies
Beacon StoriesSarah Hardwig’s love for music began from her earliest days, creating a purpose that would sustain even in the face of adversity. Diagnosed with Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) before her first birthday, the young artist continues to defy all odds and utilize her voice as a powerful beacon of hope.
-
Jul 10, 2023
Blind Author with Usher Syndrome Ignites the Literary World
Beacon StoriesAt the age of 22, Michael Garrigan received a life-changing diagnosis of Usher syndrome type 2. His vision gradually deteriorated over the years, and by the age of 45, he faced the reality of being legally blind. Determined to share his story and shed light on the capacity to triumph over darkness, Michael penned a remarkable memoir, “Ushered Out of Darkness,” in which he invites readers into his most vulnerable life moments and victories.
-
Jun 22, 2023
Why Bob and Lupe Reintsma are Supporting the Foundation Fighting Blindness
Beacon StoriesBob Reintsma has been passionate about finding cures for inherited retinal diseases for most of his life. Now, he and his wife, Lupe, want to make sure the work continues long after they’re gone. And they’re doing it in partnership with Foundation Fighting Blindness.
-
Jun 19, 2023
Beyond Labels: The Inspiring Journey of a Refsum Disease Advocate
Beacon StoriesAfter years of seeking answers, Alan Gunzburg was formally diagnosed with Refsum disease, a rare genetic disorder. Drawing on his unique journey, Alan sheds light on the obstacles he’s faced and how his experience motivated him to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
-
May 22, 2023
I Am Blind, but I Am Not the Blindness
WellnessDr. Ann Wagner is a Board-Certified Clinical Psychologist who has worked at the Minneapolis VA HCS for the past 23 years, serving veterans and their families. She works primarily on the PTSD Clinical Team providing evidenced-based assessments and interventions for PTSD and other trauma-related problems. Dr. Wagner herself is legally blind due to retinitis pigmentosa.
-
Apr 26, 2023
Traveling With a Guide Dog: Advice from a Seasoned Traveler
Beacon StoriesInternational Guide Dog Day, April 26th, is extra special to Janni Lehrer-Stein, as she’s celebrating the 5th anniversary of graduating with “the world’s best guide dog,” Shiloh. Janni, who has retinitis pigmentosa, has traveled to five countries outside of the United States with Shiloh and is sharing advice for traveling with a guide dog.
-
Apr 10, 2023
Beacon StoriesSean 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 spectrum of blinding diseases while fundraising for the Foundation Fighting Blindness.
-
Mar 27, 2023
Evolving With Eyesight and Life
Beacon StoriesGavin was diagnosed with Stargardt disease at the age of 19. In his own words, Gavin shares his experience over the last 13 years adjusting to the unpredictability of his vision loss and how being a new parent has shifted his mindset.
-
Mar 13, 2023
Blind Paralympian Reaching New Heights
Beacon StoriesIsaac Jean-Paul was diagnosed with X-linked juvenile retinoschisis (XLRS) at the age of two. Isaac was always set on being a professional athlete, and now he’s a Paralympian, winning bronze in the long jump in the 2020 Games and breaking the high jump world record three times.