"Stronger Together"

The Foundation Fighting Blindness is a beacon for those affected by blinding retinal diseases. Our 60-second public service announcement focuses on empowerment and showcases the idea that no matter an individual’s diagnosis, it’s their drive that fuels them to pursue their passion and interests. Collectively, we are stronger together – as a community.

Al was diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) at the age of 47. Now 68 years old, Al keeps busy by publishing a monthly newsletter for the local letter carrier’s union and enjoys golfing in a men’s league every Wednesday. He also participates in the Foundation’s Annual Arizona VisionWalk and is a committee member for the newly organized Arizona Golf Tournament.

Carolyn is a business professional and beauty industry leader in Raleigh, North Carolina. In spite of her diagnosis with RP, Carolyn knows exactly what she wants and what she is purposed to do in her life. The reality of Carolyn’s great insight and compassion inspired her to create Insightful Visionaries, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit, to support the ability of people with disabilities to maintain a better quality of life, through career development, arts and entertainment.

Eric resides in Rockville, Maryland with his wife, Kate, and two children, Isaac and Rebecca. Eric is an avid poker player and huge sports fan, especially the Maryland Terrapins. Eric also loves to give back and stay involved in the Fighting Blindness community. He is the Montgomery County chapter president for the Foundation Fighting Blindness and has participated in the local VisionWalk as ‘Team Walking into Walls’ for all ten years the event has been held.

Six-year-old Henry lives in Olney, Maryland with his mom, Heather, dad, Aaron, and younger sister, Harper. Henry enjoys baking with his mom, his favorite recipe being muffins. Another passion Henry has, and anyone can tell you, is elevators! Although he only has light perception, he loves watching hours of elevator videos on YouTube and he can identify the different elevators by bell sounds and features. He even wants to join in the recording fun by starting his own YouTube channel called, 'White Canes and Elevators.' Henry and his family participate in the Montgomery County VisionWalk as ‘Team Henry Strikes Back!’

Twenty-year-old Marina was raised in Oakton, Virginia and is currently a student at James Madison University. Marina is an avid piano player and has recently regained some sight which now allows her to read sheet music. Marina has also always loved to play tennis and is now a Special Olympics tennis coach. Marina and her family participate in the Northern Virginia VisionWalk and she’s served as the Youth Chair.