Sessions

Opening Session

• Technology Session – TBD 

Concurrent Science Sessions

• Optogenetics for Sight Restoration.
  This session discusses optogenetics, a method of endowing non-photoreceptor cells with light-sensing capabilities. This is the most applicable to late-stage patients.
• Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine.
  Stem cell therapies are based on the premise that we could restore vision if we could replace missing or nonfunctional functional cells, either through transplantation or by inducing existing eye cells to create more photoreceptors. These therapies are likely to be most beneficial for mid- to late-stage patients.
• Genetic Therapies: Gene Therapy and Genome Editing.
  This session will discuss therapies that are gene and/or mutation specific, including gene therapy, genome editing, and antisense oligonucleotides.
• Genetic Testing and Counseling.
  Who, when, why, and how? This session will explain the basics of genetic testing and genetic counseling, and how to understand a genetic test report.
• Eye Health and Nutrition.
  This session will discuss how dietary supplements and lifestyle choices can influence eye health (e.g. smoking, exercise).
• Gene Agnostic Therapeutic Approaches.
  This session will discuss gene agnostic therapeutic approaches, which are applicable to multiple retinal diseases and patients at early to mid-stage of disease progression. 
• Emerging Technologies
  This session will cover hot topics in retinal disease, including whole eye transplant, retinal prosthetics, N-to-1 therapies, and the use of virtual reality in clinical trials.
• Access to Innovation and Therapies.
  This session will discuss how access to therapies differs across countries and what can be done to address challenges.

Science Plenary Session

• From Bench to Bedside: It Takes a Global Village.
  This plenary session will discuss the different phases of research development, from bench science to regulatory approval, and challenges and milestones along the way.

Adapting & Thriving Sessions

• Addressing O&M Barriers and Expanding Access to Services.
  The number of individuals who would benefit from O&M instruction has increased. It is recognized that not only are there individuals who are unserved, but also underserved. Traditional models designed to provide O&M instruction include multidisciplinary, center-based and itinerant training; however, other successful models are being utilized to support unmet client needs. Our session explores the non-traditional approaches for the provision of O&M instruction that supports generalizable O&M skills in a variety of environments. A collaborative approach for practicing and expanding O&M skills is shared. Additionally, strategies for educating client support networks for increasing independent travel are explored.
• A New Way to Swing: Staying in the Game with Vision Loss.
  Vision loss doesn’t mean giving up the game — it just means learning a new way to swing. This session is designed for individuals who are losing their sight and wondering if they can still enjoy the sport they love.
• Breaking the Barriers around Mental Health
  Identifying and dismantling the obstacles that prevent people from seeking help, speaking openly, and accessing proper care.
• Bridging the Gap: What Questions to Ask Your Retina Specialist
  This session will provide an overview of talking points, questions, and strategies for learning about resources for patients and families from initial diagnosis and beyond.
• Life Together: Exploring the Benefits of Intersectionality in Personal Relationships
  Join Christy and David, two professionals with disabilities, as they discuss the power of intersectionality in personal relationships. Through open dialogue and understanding of each other's unique experiences, they have formed a deep connection and ability to navigate accessibility needs, communication, and life together. Discover positive strategies you can apply to your relationships to accommodate and support one another through changes in health and disability levels. This session is perfect for blind/low vision individuals and their partners or family members
• Low Vision Aids and Devices.
  Learn about devices, technologies, low vision adaptations for work, home and education. 

Clinical and Research Updates

• Usher Syndrome.
  This session will feature clinicans and researchers discussing recent updates for Usher syndrome.
• Retinitis Pigmentosa.
  This session will feature clinicans and researchers discussing recent updates for retinitis pigmentosa.
• Leber Congenital Amaurosis.
  This session will feature clinicans and researchers discussing recent updates for Leber congenital amaurosis.
• Stargardt Disease and Macular Dystrophies.
  This session will feature clinicans and researchers discussing recent updates for Stargardt disease and macular dystrophies.
• Age-Related Macular Degeneration.
  This session will feature clinicians and researchers discussing recent updates for dry age-related macular degeneration
• Other Retinal Diseases (CHM, BCM, XLRS).
  This session will feature clinicans and researchers discussing recent updates for other retinal diseases, including choroideremia and X-linked retinoschisis.

Mix & Mingles (various)

• Looking to meet others? Join us for a relaxed and welcoming Mix & Mingles where attendees can connect, share insights and build real connections with other who are affected by a similar disease.