Each year, the Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind hosts the Annual Chasco Coronation Ball. The Ball is a black tie event, held to recognize local philanthropy, and to crown a King Pithla and Queen Chasco, 2 community leaders who give of their time and talents to the many non-profit organizations in our community. The ball also raises much needed funds and awareness for the Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind. Proceeds from the event are used to provide vision rehabilitation services to persons who are visually impaired and blind.

This year’s ball is being held on Friday March 23, 2012.

Please submit your nominations for King & Queen, and reserve your tickets now:

Nominations for 2012 King Pithla & Queen Chasco are now being accepted!!!

The King and Queen are chosen for their dedication and commitment to our community. We encourage your organization to submit the names of deserving community volunteers, as this is a rare opportunity to acknowledge those people who have helped to make our community a better place to live. The King and Queen are chosen by independent judges, not associated with the Lighthouse in any way. The judges review each nominee questionnaire and statistically rate their contributions to the community.

• Click Here to download the Nomination Form in PDF format.
• Click Here to download the Nomination Form in Microsoft Word format.

Nominations should be completed  and emailed to Lighthouse Executive Director Sylvia Perez at sperez@lvib.org. ALL NOMINATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN FEBRUARY 17, 2012! For more information, please contact Event Chair Tina Shelton at tinashelton@tampabay.rr.com or (727) 439-0516. Since the Lighthouse is a nonprofit organization and unable to assist nominees with the purchase of tickets, we encourage the nominating organizations and groups to sponsor  nominees.

Tickets for the Ball are now on sale!

• Reservations for this event are currently being accepted; and tickets are $100.00 per person. To place your order, please contact Tina Shelton at tinashelton@tampabay.rr.com or (727) 439-0516.
• Sponsorship and auction items are also needed. Please email events@lvib.org or contact us for details.

To learn more about the Ball, read about last year’s Coronation ball in the 2011 spring edition of LVIB IN TOUCH or contact us directly. You can also view ball pictures on our Past Events page!

About the Lighthouse:

The mission of the Lighthouse is to provide persons who are visually impaired and blind with the skills needed to achieve their maximum independence. The Lighthouse is a nonprofit 501C(3), providing vision rehabilitation services in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus Counties.

Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Inc.
8610 Galen Wilson Blvd.
Port Richey, FL 34668
Phone: (727) 815-0303
www.lvib.org
lighthouse@lvib.org

Ninety percent (90%) of employed persons with vision impairments use braille to effectively read and write. Unfortunately, only 10% of children with vision impairments are currently learning braille.

There is a literacy crisis among the blind in America. Literacy is defined as the ability to read and write. For many persons with total or profound vision loss, the only way they can effectively read and write is by using Braille, a system of raised dots invented by a blind Louis Braille.

The Braille code was introduced in the United States in 1869, but was not adopted as a Standard English code until 1932. From that point into the early 1960’s, many blind children were taught to read and write using Braille. Unfortunately, from 1965 on, the Braille literacy rate declined. Today, according to the National Federation for the Blind (NFB), over 90% of the 1.3 million legally blind people in the United States do not read Braille, and it is being taught to only 10% of blind children.   

A number of things have contributed to this extremely low literacy rate for persons who are blind. Since the passage of the Rehabilitation Act by Congress in 1973, thousands of children are now enrolled in the public school system rather than in specialized schools for the blind. The problem, however, is that only a small number of public schools can afford to hire or train Braille teachers.  There, also, is the misguided idea that technology—such as audio books and talking computers—are a substitute for Braille. Therefore many educators think Braille isn’t necessary. Children with some residual vision are being denied Braille instruction because of the emphasis on print magnification. However, even with magnification, many children with low vision cannot read print effectively.

Being literate is essential to succeed in life. While the rate of unemployment for persons who are blind is extremely high (70%), it is interesting to note that 90% of blind individuals who are employed are Braille readers. The NFB, the oldest and largest organization of blind persons in the U.S., has been the champion of Braille literacy for decades. They have initiated a campaign to double the number of Braille readers by 2015. 

The President and Congress recognized the critical role Braille plays in the independence and success of the blind with the passage of Public Law 109-247 in July 2006. The law authorized the minting of the 2009 Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollar. Louis Braille was born on January 4, 1809 in Coupvray, France and became totally blind by the age of 5. As a young child, while attending a school for blind children, Louis became disenchanted with the books for the blind that had large letters embossed on the pages. As a result, he started punching holes in paper and developed what we know today as the Braille code. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of 2009 Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollars goes toward the Braille literacy campaign. The coins can be obtained from the U.S. Mint or from the NFB.

Another effort to spread the word about the importance of Braille was the “Let Freedom Ring” book. This is a book of 100 letters to the President of the United States from blind children, adults and senior citizens that explains Braille’s role in their lives. On February 1, 2010, Arn Duncan, Secretary of Education accepted the book on behalf of President Obama from Fred Schroeder, NFB’s First Vice President.

The Annual Braille Challenge, also, promotes Braille literacy and competency. It is a national academic competition open to all blind students up to grade 12.  The Challenge stresses reading comprehension, spelling, Braille speed and accuracy, proofreading and the reading of tactile charts and graphs.

The Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind offers free training in Braille reading and writing for persons who are blind and visually impaired of all ages, living in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus Counties. We are also seeking donors in support of our babies, children’s and adult literacy activities. Please contact the Lighthouse for more information:

Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind
8610 Galen Wilson Blvd., Port Richey, FL 34668
Phone: (727) 815-0303, Toll free: 1-866-962-5254

References

• www.nfb.org/nfb/Braille_media.asp?SnID=1
• www.nfb.org/nfb/Braille_Initiative.asp
• www.perkins.org/news-events/press/a-boost-for-braille.html
• www.fimcvi.org/braille-challenge
• http://donna-w-hill.suite101.com/obama-gets-book-of-letters-about-braille-a199513
• www.nfb.org/nfb/Braille_coin.asp

In our fiscal year ending June 30, 2011, the Lighthouse served over 800 persons living in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties. Of this number, 241 persons with vision impairments and blindness were provided with extensive vision rehabilitation programs and 46 family members and professionals were provided with services in support of persons with vision loss. As 2011 comes to an end, we would like to share one of our ‘little’ success stories with you.

Lily is a visually impaired child, born with a very rare combination of visual defects. During her first few months, her parents, Jennifer and Peter, brought Lily to numerous professionals. They were desperate to know if their baby could see. Jennifer and Peter also were in fear for Lily’s future—at that point they did not know about services specifically designed to support blind children in meeting their childhood milestones. Finally a pediatric ophthalmologist, Dr. Derek Hess, suggested that they bring Lily to the Lighthouse.

At the Lighthouse, Lily was placed in the Early Intervention Blind Babies Program where she began to learn how to use her remaining vision and how to integrate her other senses. Educators estimate that more than 80% of what children learn is incidental learning that is learning from observation. Obviously for visually impaired children, such learning is problematic. Lily and her parents were taught how to explore and learn about the world in other ways. Lily is now walking, developing pre-literacy skills, and soon she will enter the literacy stage. Lily will learn to read with her eyes, ears and hands using adapted skills and computer technology. We anticipate she will be on time for entering the school system.

Lily’s story is one of many Lighthouse success stories. Since 1983, we have assisted thousands of persons with vision impairments and their families to cope with the physical and emotional challenges associated with vision loss. You are invited to learn more about our clients and services by visiting our website. Also please visit our current newsletter to read more about Lily in “Learning to See – A Child’s Journey.”

The Lighthouse is funded in part by the Division of Blind Services, the United Way of Pasco and Hernando Counties, and Pasco County Board of Commissioners. We also depend on donations in order to meet the need for services. If you are able, please help us continue to meet the need by donating, volunteering, attending our annual ball, or by raising awareness about vision rehabilitation services. Checks can be sent to:

Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Inc.
8610 Galen Wilson Blvd.
Port Richey, FL 34668

Thank you for your consideration of our yearend appeal, for your contributions, and for your support of persons who are visually impaired and blind. The staff and volunteers of the Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind wish you and your loved ones a joyous Holiday Season and a Happy, Healthy New Year.

Sylvia Perez, Executive Director
Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Inc.
Phone: (727) 815-0303
Serving Pasco, Hernando & Citrus Counties

Click here to download the print version.

Agency Update From The Executive Director

Loss of sight is something most of you can only imagine, but there are more persons than you know that experience the loss of their sight, a loss that impacts every aspect of life. If you are a sighted person, I’d like to ask you to imagine a few things:

Imagine if you woke up tomorrow and were blind. How would your life change? Could you still live independently, play ball with your child, operate your computer, ride a bike, or read a book? The answer is yes—with training from the Lighthouse. Every day the Lighthouse sees this reality in the lives of persons who are blind and visually impaired—from babies to seniors—who are living life to their maximum independence.

15-month-old Lily is using “Little Lighthouse” Early Intervention Services to develop the skills needed to succeed.

Imagine if you were blind and needed to work. Persons who are visually impaired and blind experience an over 70% unemployment rate, and the Lighthouse is working on reducing this staggering statistic in the areas we serve. In 2012, we are planning some exciting new programs and enterprises that will create employment for individuals who are blind.

In 2011, the Lighthouse served over 800 people. Our clients are more independent and lead a higher quality of life because of our support and services. Please read our newsletter to learn how we are helping persons who are visually impaired, like Lily, pictured with Santa, to live successfully with vision loss.

On behalf of the Lighthouse Board of Directors, staff, volunteers and those we serve, I wish all of you a Happy Holiday season. Thank you to all who have supported independence for persons who are blind and visually impaired. Now more than ever, we need your support. The number of persons who have vision loss is increasing, and we want to keep up with the demand for service.

Please consider making a donation towards our 2011 Yearend Appeal for Support. There are several ways to make a donation to the Lighthouse which include joining The Friends of the Lighthouse Annual Giving Program. In-kind donations are always accepted as well. Please see our Wish List at http://lvib.org/help/donate/wish-list for details.

If you like our newsletter, please share it on Facebook. Thank you!

Inside this Edition

1. Giving For A Vision

• 27th Annual Chasco Coronation Ball
• 2011 White Cane Awareness Day

2. Year In Review

• Overview
• Employment Initiatives
• Prevalence of Blindness & Vision Impairment

3. Client Profiles

• Learning To See: A Child’s Journey
• Donna’s Big Adventure

4. Donors – December 2010 to December 2011

• Friends of the Lighthouse
• All Donors ($100+)

5. About Us

• The Lighthouse Legacy Society
• Contact the Lighthouse
• About LVIB IN TOUCH

1. Giving For A Vision

27th Annual Chasco Coronation Ball

The 2011 King & Queen, Chuck Grey & Judith Koutsos (center) receiving their award from their 2010 predecessors, Bonnie Howard & Dr. Rao Musunuru.

The 27th Annual Chasco Coronation Ball will be held on March 23, 2012 at 6:00 pm at Spartan Manor in New Port Richey. The Coronation Ball is an evening of elegance which is highlighted by the crowning of this year’s King Pithla and Queen Chasco. The 2011 King Pithla, Chuck Grey and Queen Chasco, Judith Koutsos will be on hand to crown the 2012 King and Queen.

The Coronation Ball will also feature an elegant dinner along with dancing, silent auctions and entertainment. Reservations for this event are being accepted; and tickets are $100.00 per person. The proceeds from the event assist the Lighthouse in continuing the organization’s mission. For more information on the Chasco Coronation Ball, please contact Tina Shelton at (727) 439-0516 or tinashelton@tampabay.rr.com.

2011 White Cane Awareness Day

White Cane events increase pedestrian safety while promoting independence for persons who are visually impaired and blind.

On Saturday, October 15, 2011, the Lighthouse hosted a National White Cane Safety Day event which was attended by almost 100 visually impaired and blind persons and their friends and family members. Several volunteers also attended including sorority sisters from Theta Phi Alpha at Saint Leo University.

Thank you to all who came out and supported the event. Also, thank you to Vanda Pharmaceuticals and Publix for their sponsorship. Vanda is conducting a sleep study for those who are completely blind and experience sleep deprivation. For information on the study, please contact Vanda at 1-888-389-7033, info@non24registry.com, or go to www.non24registry.com.

2. Year In Review

Lighthouse services are provided to persons with vision impairments of all ages, thanks to the generosity of our donors.

In 2011, the Lighthouse served over 800 people, not including individuals in need of information or referrals. Of this number, 241 persons with vision impairments and blindness were provided with extensive vision rehabilitation programs; and 46 family members and professionals were provided with counseling and collaboration with the objective of supporting persons with vision loss. The breakdown is as follows:

• 30 blind babies and children received training to help them get a good start that ensures they can have a normal childhood and can look forward to a higher quality of life.
• 14 teens participated in the School to Work Transition Program which prepares teens for independent living, higher education, and employment.
• The Independent Living Program and Vocational Rehabilitation Program combined provided training to 195 persons—giving many adults a chance to improve their employment situation, and many seniors the ability to stay in their own homes independently and safely.
• A record number of vocational rehabilitation clients were served, demonstrating the need for job placement and employment center initiatives.
• We assisted over 500 people with obtaining Low Vision devices that enabled them to live more independently.
• In 2012, we anticipate the demand for services will increase by 16%.

Employment Initiatives – Highlights

In 2011, the Lighthouse began several employment initiatives (EI) in an effort to create employment for persons with vision loss. Accomplishments include:

• Our WebStore opened in January 2011, employing one person who is visually impaired. Over 800 donated books, movies & CD’s can be purchased at http://amzn.to/lvibstore.
• An EI staff member completed an administrative project for the Rap River Run, and has been asked to take on greater responsibility for the next race.
• We have been working diligently to develop an assembly/manufacturing center which will employ individuals who are visually impaired and blind starting in 2012.

Prevalence of Blindness and Visual Impairment: Pasco, Hernando & Citrus*

*Cavenaugh, B., Crudden, A., Giesen, J., McDonnall, M., Sansing, W. (2008). Statewide assessment of unmet rehabilitation needs of Florida citizens who are blind or visually impaired. Mississippi State University, Rehabilitation Research & Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision.

Please visit www.lvib.org to learn more about our clients and services.

3. Client Profiles

Learning To See: A Child’s Journey

It is said that 80 to 90% of what is learned is from visual information, but what if you are a person who cannot see?

The first few years of a child’s life are filled with wonder and excitement. Each moment brings opportunities for learning. A child’s potential is shaped by their experiences, as well as their personality, their environment, and the support of parents and caregivers. For a visually impaired or blind child, early intervention is essential to help them develop their full potential. A child who is visually impaired must develop visual abilities, compensation skills and learn to cope with their disability from an early age.

Lily is a 15-month-old little girl with a visual impairment. She has bilateral Microphthalmia (small eyes), Coloboma (hole in the structure of the eye), and Nystagmus (involuntary movement of the eye). Since Lily’s birth, her parents, Jennifer and Peter, have worked diligently to learn about their child’s condition and to find ways to help their child adapt to vision loss. Jennifer and Peter admit it has been a struggle. Lily’s combination of visual defects is quite rare, therefore very little is known. They would like to develop an understanding of genetics, and an understanding of what their child can see—it’s difficult to determine what an infant sees because of limited communication.

Before coming to the Lighthouse, Lily had been seen by numerous professionals. While a diagnosis had been made, there was no plan in place to support Lily’s development. One day Jennifer realized her child had some vision; Lily tracked her cell phone because of the display. Jennifer and Peter were ecstatic to learn that their child could see; however, it was difficult to persuade most people to believe.

Lily’s story with the Lighthouse began when she was 5 months old. After a referral to the Lighthouse by Dr. Derek Hess, Jennifer and Peter said they were thrilled to learn about free, specialized vision rehabilitation services designed to support persons with vision impairment at any age—and all provided by experienced, educated and caring professionals. They were further intrigued and amazed to learn that many Lighthouse services are provided by successful professionals who are visually impaired. Our program manager, for example, has been blind since birth. Jennifer and Peter appreciated the fact that our staff could teach from personal experience.

We began by providing information and support to Lily’s parents, specifically emphasizing the importance of treating Lily like a regular child. So much of what a person knows is based on everyday interactions and incidental learning. However for a child with a visual impairment, incidental learning, which is learning though observation, is problematic. Lily’s parents have learned to give their child every experience they can, and to bring the world to her, so Lily can touch it and see it with her hands.

The Lighthouse created an individualized training program for Lily. She received a functional assessment of her physical, cognitive and visual abilities in order to identify learning goals. Lily began to receive weekly visits from Becky, our Early Intervention Teacher, who also worked with the parents so they were able to support skill development 24 hours a day.

Lily began to develop her visual capabilities while making her developmental milestones. While most children see a whole object first, and then explore the little parts, children like Lily need to construct a whole image from the parts they can see or feel at one time. As a result, Lily became very interested in physical details which has helped her to develop other skills and senses.

Lily is developing more confidence and personality. Thanks to supportive and determined parents, her own determination and the Lighthouse team, Lily is and will continue to be a success.

Lily is developing tactile sensitivity, recognition of objects and differentiation of sizes and shapes. Lily used to reach out and feel for edges in order to find objects but now she is using her eyes and her sense of smell. Recently, Lily started to walk and she has also started to talk. Anyone who sees Lily is instantly captivated by her grin, her wonderful giggly babble, and her childish but steady pace. She also loves holding her books and behaving as though she can read. The Lighthouse will work with Lily on developing literacy, using large print and braille materials. We will continue to work with Lily to ensure she develops many other abilities including safe movement skills.

From the start, Jennifer and Peter were worried about Lily’s future. They were concerned that their daughter would be held back in some way because of her disability. It is a relief that they have found much needed services and support. The Lighthouse staff says it is wonderful to see Lily grow and develop more confidence and personality. All of the critical components are coming together to make Lily a success—supportive and encouraging parents, a child with determination, and a Lighthouse team that believes all can learn, with or without sight.

The Lighthouse appreciates the opportunity to work with Lily and other children like her. Our hard work, and that of their parents, is making a difference for children who are visually impaired and blind. The State of Florida provides about 30% of the funding needed to serve all our babies and children. Donations are critical to ensuring that all blind babies have the opportunity to succeed. We hope other children will be able to make the same journey.

Donna’s Big Adventure

Life presents many challenges but none so potentially devastating as eye disease that leads to blindness.

Donna is an adventurous, determined woman who is meeting a significant challenge. Although she has had Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) from birth, she has not let it stop her from leading a productive life. Recently, Donna’s vision loss became more pronounced. This should have been a huge detriment, but Donna rose to the challenge and is now on what she calls a big adventure.

Donna was diagnosed with RP at the age of 12. RP is a genetic eye disease that progressively leads to blindness. The tell tale sign for Donna was having poor night vision. She would bump into things when there was insufficient light. Despite the challenges, Donna was a typical teenager, who was active, athletic, and played fast pitch. Donna entered the workforce after graduating high school in New Jersey and proved to be an exemplary employee. She worked hard, and with each position, she became more skilled and was given more responsibility.

At the age of 23, Donna relocated to Citrus County, Florida. She kept working and continued, for a short time, to play softball. Her athleticism gave her the motivation she needed to overcome the challenges she faced. Donna was also able to ‘pass’ as a sighted person.

The Lighthouse provided services to Donna’s brother 18 years ago. In September of 2010, Donna contacted the Lighthouse, wanting to volunteer. Then, after speaking with staff, she decided to become a student in training. Donna was excited to finally meet others who were visually impaired. She knew it was time to come to terms with her vision loss and get some help.

Donna dove into an intensive training program which covered Independent Living, Safe Travel/White Cane, Assistive Technology and Braille. Vision Rehabilitation teachers taught a variety of techniques and strategies to help Donna most successfully adapt to her vision loss and develop independence. According to Patricia Lopez, a Lighthouse Vision Rehabilitation instructor, Donna was an excellent student. “Donna told me she was tired of ‘passing’ and she took all of that energy and redirected it into her training”.

Now equipped with instruction, guidance, tools and resources, Donna can continue living her adventure, on her own terms and in her own way. In the past, she experienced anger and sadness, but now she is coping much better and is actively engaged in Donna’s Big Adventure. Donna has learned to do things around her home for herself, and she continues with several hobbies (which include expanding her Wizard of Oz collection) and her regular pilgrimage—she loves to explore the world on her own, and with her friends and family.

Donna’s Big Adventure is a summarized version of this story. The full story can be read online at http://lvib.org/profiles.

4. Donors – December 2010 to December 2011

Thank you to everyone who supports our mission. Every effort has been made to recognize as many people as possible. If your name should be added to this list, please contact newsletter@lvib.org. Also, a huge thank you to our 2011 ball goers—you came out in record numbers and made our 2011 fundraising ball a huge success!

Friends of the Lighthouse Annual Giving Program

• Mr. Michael Addessi
• Mr. & Mrs. Sanford Barley
• Mr. Joseph Broderick
• Mr. Andrew Coyne
• Mr. William Crane
• Ms. Helga Demos
• Mr. Norris Dickens
• FOE Suncoast Auxiliary #3153
• Ms. Daisy Hogue
• Korman’s Sunset Landing
• Dr. John Mann
• Mr. Declan Mansfield
• Mr. Doug Martin
• Ms. Jamie Mick
• Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Mills
• Dr. Rao Musunuru & Family
• Mr. James Pohler
• Mr. Henry Prillaman
• Mr. Edward Quigley
• Mr. & Mrs. William Robert
• Ms. Sun Roberts
• Mr. Albert Schreck
• Mr. George Sgarro
• Mr. Konstantin Von Engelhardt
• Dr. H. Christopher Ward
• Mr. Carl Wiegand
• Mr. Kenneth Yarmesch

All Donors of $100+ (please visit our supporters page for a complete list)

• ABCO Graphics & Printing
• Animal’s Best Choice Veterinary Hospital
• Arnold Palmer Enterprises
• Arthur Murray Dance Studios
• Ms. Cami Austin
• Bank of America
• Ms. Kathleen Bankoff
• Bay Area Air Conditioning & Heating
• Ms. Linda Bennett
• Mr. Gary Blackwell
• Bok Tower Gardens
• Mr. & Mrs. David Brown
• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
• R.P. Butler
• Canoe Escape
• Canoe Outpost – Peace River
• Cason Photography
• Clearwater Marine Aquarium
• Cody’s Original Roadhouse
• Community Foundation of Tampa Bay
• Community Hospital Healthcare Center
• Community Service Council of West Pasco
• Cotee River Lions/Cotee River Leo Club
• Dancing Swans LLC
• Days Inn & Suites
• Delzer, Coulter, Taylor & Bell, P.A.
• Dobies Funeral Home
• Mr. Fred Engelking, Jr.
• Enterprise Holdings Foundation
• Mr. & Mrs. Richard Finnan
• Florida Orchestra
• Mr. Phillip Goff
• Ms. Gail Gornick
• Mr. Ed Granger
• Gulf Harbors Civic Association
• Helier Communities
• Greg Henry
• Hernando Community Resource Council
• Hernando Symphony Orchestra
• Hudson/Bayonet Point Lions Foundation
• Ms. Katalin Janka
• Kohl’s
• Law Offices of Skipper & Skipper, P.A.
• Mr. Harold Mascher
• Ms. Clara Mcanally
• Museum of Science & Industry
• New Image Dermatology
• NPR Library
• Pasco Aging Network
• Perry’s Ocean Edge Resort
• Mr. Bruce Pienkos
• Pinellas Optometric Association
• Ms. Angela Pittman
• Progress Energy
• Prosser Howells, P.A.
• Publix Super Markets, Inc.
• Publix Super Markets Charities
• Quality Docks
• Radison World Gate Resort (Radison Kissimmee)
• Re/Max Advantage Realty
• Red Lobster Port Richey
• Red Lobster Spring Hill
• Mr. Dean Reid
• Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point
• River Ridge Golf & Country Club
• Rotary Club of Holiday
• Rotary Club of New Port Richey
• Rotary Club of Trinity
• SeaWorld of Florida
• Shapes Total Fitness
• Ms. Cynthia Smith
• Spartan Manor
• SPCA Suncoast
• Spirit of Life MCC
• St. James Fire Department
• St. Luke’s Cataract & Laser Institute
• St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church
• Mr. Jay Starkey Jr.
• Suncoast Eye Center/Eye Surgery Institute
• Suncoast Graphics Factory
• Suncoast Ladies of West Pasco
• Suncoast Smile Saver PA
• Target
• Thornton, Torrence & Barnett P.A.
• Trademark Capital
• Vanda Pharmaceuticals
• Mr. Allan Waters
• Wells Fargo Community Support Campaign
• Ms. Lowanda Wells
• Wild Adventures Theme Park
• Mr. Richard Williams Jr.
• Windsong Charters

5. About Us

The mission of the Lighthouse is to provide persons who are visually impaired with the skills needed to achieve their maximum independence. We provide free, individualized rehabilitation services to persons who are visually impaired and their families. We are designated by the Florida Division of Blind Services as the only community resource provider of vision rehabilitation in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus Counties.

Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)3 charity, registration number CH662. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-435-7352 WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. Official registration can also be viewed online at http://csapp.800helpfla.com/cspublicapp/giftgiversquery/giftgiversquery.aspx.

The Lighthouse is funded in part by the Department of Education, Division of Blind Services, by the United Way of Pasco, the United Way of Hernando, and by Pasco County Commissioners. We also depend on fundraising and donations from clubs, businesses and private citizens in order to meet the need for services.

The Lighthouse Legacy Society

Only 8% of American households include nonprofits in their estate plans. Imagine the impact it would have on our community if everyone made a bequest to their favorite nonprofit! The Lighthouse is asking you to consider making a bequest that will have a lasting effect on persons who are visually impaired and blind. Following is generalized codicil for your use. Please provide a signed copy to the Lighthouse in order to assist with the execution of your final wishes.

“I devise and bequeath to Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Inc., a nonprofit agency registered in the State of Florida, the sum of $ ______ (or otherwise describe the gift; often a percentage of the estate is designated) to be used in the furtherance of its mission and general purposes.”

To learn about The Lighthouse Legacy Society, please visit http://lvib.org/help/donate/legacy. In order to create a valid last will and testament, a donor should always obtain the assistance of an attorney.

Contact, Read About or Visit the Lighthouse

Sylvia Stinson-Perez, Executive Director: sperez@lvib.org
Board and staff directory: http://lvib.org/about/staff
General email: lighthouse@lvib.org
Visit our website: www.lvib.org
Read our blog and sign up for blog updates: www.lvib.org/lighthouse-blog 
Visit us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/LighthousefortheV.I.Pasco.Hernando.Citrus
You can also read Sylvia’s Guide Dog Tale at www.lighthousepasco.wordpress.com

About LVIB IN TOUCH

LVIB IN TOUCH is a free quarterly newsletter produced and distributed by Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind.

• Thank you to ABCO Graphics & Printing, Inc. for sponsoring this edition of LVIB IN TOUCH. ABCO Graphics & Printing, Inc. did a great job printing and assembling our printed newsletter, and their donation is very much appreciated.
• Contributors to this edition of LVIB IN TOUCH include Becky Barber, Caryl Melancon, Meredith McInnes, Patricia Porter, & Sylvia Stinson-Perez.

Please help us raise awareness about services, reach more persons with visual impairments, and gain support:

• After reading this newsletter, please forward it to a friend or leave it in a place for others to read.
• If you are not on our mailing list, contact us to subscribe.
• If you change your address, provide us with the update.
• If you receive LVIB IN TOUCH by mail, please consider subscribing to our email newsletter instead to save paper and postage costs.
• If you have questions or comments about this newsletter, please contact us at newsletter@lvib.org or call the LVIB in your area.

We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for reading LVIB IN TOUCH.

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Diabetes is the primary cause of new cases of blindness among adults ages 20 to 74. The risk of eyesight threatening problems such as diabetic retinopathy (DR), glaucoma and cataracts is much higher for diabetics both Type 1 and Type 2. Between 40 and 45% of diabetics have some stage of diabetic retinopathy and diabetics are 40% more likely to develop glaucoma and 60% more likely to develop cataracts.

Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in the United States. With diabetic retinopathy, the small blood vessels in the eye become enlarged or clogged by high levels of sugar in the blood. They also can become weak and rupture or the retina can become detached. Often there are no early symptoms of the disease. When symptoms appear, they can include bury or double vision, floaters or dark patches, or in the case of a detached retina, flashes or dark spots. The longer an individual has diabetes and the older they are the more likely they are to get DR.

Glaucoma is often referred to as the “thief of sight”. Fluid pressure inside the eye rises and damages the optic nerve. There are usually no symptoms at first, but an eye exam can detect it.

Cataracts cloud or fog the lens of the eye. While anyone can get cataracts, people with diabetes tend to get them at an earlier age and the condition progresses more rapidly. Symptoms include blurred or glared vision.

For diabetics, annual eye exams are a must. It is estimated that 90% of diabetic eye disease can be prevented by regular examinations and treatment. Unfortunately, more than half of the people with diabetes do not get the recommended yearly eye exams.

If you have diabetes, don’t risk blindness. Make sure you get annual eye exams. If you know someone with diabetes, make them aware of the risk. Losing ones sight is tragic but it’s even more tragic when it could have been prevented. If you need help with developing skills to cope with loss of vision, please contact the Lighthouse.

Submitted by Caryl Melancon, Lighthouse Volunteer

References:

• http://diabetes.about.com
• http://www.diabetes-sight.org
• http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/diabetic/retinopathy.asp#2b
• http://www.samrx.com/blog/news/november-is-diabetes-eye-disease-awareness-month

“How Can I Help You?”

Last year, client members of the Advocacy Committee of the New Hampshire Association for the Blind shared personal stories about difficulties they had experienced as persons who are blind or visually impaired in hospitals and other medical practices and facilities.

The group asked:

“How can we change things?”
“How can we train hospital staff so we can have the same access as sighted people?”

The decision was made:  “Lets make a training video.”

With this goal in mind, the committee created a video that illustrates many problems blind and visually impaired people often face while getting medical care. The video is now available for all to view.

To Watch and\or Download: Go to: www.sightcenter.org  -  on the front page menu open Resources Tab, select Video Links, read the story of how the video came about and select Watch or Download.

You can also see it on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlP7mCr3LmQ

It is the hope of the New Hampshire Association for the Blind, that any organization that wishes may use this video for staff and volunteer training purposes and to promote accessibility for persons who are blind and visually impaired.  We also encourage others to create similar tools and disseminate them broadly.

Sighted persons under blindfold stand by the goal line waiting to hear the ball appoach

Saturday October 25, 2011 was mild and breezy. A large group of visually impaired and blind persons, and their friends and family members, gathered in Anderson Snow Park to commemorate National White Cane Safety Day. We were also joined by several of our returning volunteers, plus we were fortunate to have some new ones, including sorority sisters from Theta Phi Alpha at Saint Leo University. 

The group also participated in our walk for independence, which was a great opportunity for those in the park to observe persons who are visually impaired using their white canes. Our white cane day was the second event held this October, intended to raise awareness about free vision rehabilitation services for those living with low vision in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus Counties. So few people know about our services, therefore our events are critical to getting the word out in different ways. Happily, we were able to attract the attention of Hernando Today. Please read their article about the Lighthouse, called Seeing Clearly by Hayley Mathis.

Thank you to all who attended our White Cane Day, especially our volunteers. Your caring nature and your positive energy goes a long way to making the persons we serve feel as though they are part of your community, and the extra hands made our efforts at raising awareness a real success. Also thank you to Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Publix Super Markets Charities for sponsoring our White Cane Day. Vanda Pharmaceuticals is conducting a sleep study for those who are completely blind and suffer from sleep deprivation. For information on the study, please contact 1-888-389-7033, email info@non24registry.com or go to http://www.non24registry.com.

Walkers at our 2010 White Cane Day Event

The majority of visually impaired and blind individuals want to be as independent as possible. White canes and guide dogs help them achieve that goal.  National White Cane Safety Day, which is October 15^th, was established to ensure the safety and independence of visually impaired and blind individuals who use white canes or guide dogs or both. The Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind celebrates National White Cane Safety Day every year to promote the independence and achievements of people who are blind or visually impaired and to raise awareness of the White Cane law which requires drivers to yield to pedestrians with a white cane or guide dog.

This year’s celebration will take place on October 15^th, at 10:00 a.m. at Anderson Snow Park in Spring Hill and will feature a white cane walk. Sighted individuals, who are interested in learning what it’s like to be blind, will be provided with simulator glasses and assisted on the walk by sighted guides to ensure their safety. Participants, also, are encouraged to walk with an individual who is visually impaired to learn about them and their experience. Please visit our events page for more information and to RSVP for our October 15 White Cane Celebration.

Throughout the ages, canes, staffs and sticks have been used as aids by the blind. However, it was not until the twentieth century that the cane became a symbol to alert people that an individual was blind. The introduction of the white cane in the United States has been attributed to Lion’s Clubs International when, in 1930, a member in Peoria, Illinois watched a blind man trying to cross a busy street with a black cane. The club decided to paint the cane white so that it would be more visible to motorists and began a national program promoting the use of white canes for the blind.

There, also, is a long history of dogs assisting the blind. However, there was no formal guide dog training until after World War I when a school in Germany began training German shepherds as guides for those blinded in the war. Dorothy Eustis, an American woman living in Switzerland, visited the school before it closed and decided to train her own dogs as guide dogs. She, also, wrote an article about the school which appeared in the November 5, 1927 edition of the Saturday Evening Post.

A young blind man living in Nashville Tennessee heard about the article and wrote to Ms. Eustis asking her to train a dog for him to help him become independent. In return, he promised to teach others who were blind, so that they too could become independent. Mrs. Eustis agreed if he would come to Switzerland. Mr. Frank did and became the first American to use a guide dog, a female German shepherd named Buddy. With $10,000 donated by Ms. Eustis, Mr. Frank established the first guide dog school in America.  It was called “The Seeing Eye” and was incorporated in January 1929. The school moved from Tennessee to New Jersey in 1931.

In December, 1930, Illinois passed the first special White Cane Ordinance. Other states soon followed. The laws require drivers to come to a complete stop when they encounter a pedestrian with a white cane or guide dog crossing the street. In the 1960’s, organizations across the country who served the blind urged Congress to proclaim October 15^th as White Cane Safety Day. On October 6, 1964, a joint resolution of Congress authorizing then President Lyndon Johnson to proclaim October 15^th as White Cane Safety Day was signed into law. Since then White Cane Safety Day has been celebrated across the country by agencies and advocates for the visually impaired and blind.

References 

http://www.njcounciloftheblind.org/brochures/history_of_white_cane.htm

http://www.muhlenberg.edu/studorgs/companion/ccfaqhistory.html

Article submitted by Caryl Melancon, Lighthouse Volunteer.