The global conference, held on June 21–22,
is dedicated to fostering connection, learning, and empowerment for
individuals and families impacted by blinding diseases.
COLUMBIA, Md., May 17, 2024
/PRNewswire/ -- The Foundation Fighting Blindness, the driving
force in the global development of treatments and cures for
blinding diseases, will host its VISIONS 2024 conference at the
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile on June 21–22, 2024.
This biennial event offers a unique opportunity for attendees to
connect with others from the blind and low vision community and
learn about the latest research advancements, products, and
services.
VISIONS 2024, designed specifically for individuals and their
families affected by blinding diseases such as retinitis
pigmentosa, Usher syndrome, Stargardt disease, Leber congenital
amaurosis, age-related macular degeneration, is a conference
addressing the diverse needs of the 1 in 53 globally affected by
these diseases.
Highlights of VISIONS 2024:
- Opening Session: Technology: The Greatest Equalizer
– Join trailblazing tech leaders as they discuss the keys to
greater digital accessibility, empowering individuals irrespective
of visual ability. Gain insights into groundbreaking AI
advancements, inclusive design, and the collaboration between tech
giants and the blind community.
- Concurrent Science Sessions – Explore cutting-edge
research in optogenetics, stem cell therapies, genetic therapies,
and emerging technologies. Led by renowned experts, these sessions
offer valuable insights into vision restoration and treatment.
- Luncheon Keynote Speaker: Sumaira "Sam" Latif – Sam is
the senior director and company accessibility leader at Procter
& Gamble and will share her inspiring personal
journey of overcoming vision loss, and driving innovation for
global accessibility.
- Adapting & Thriving Sessions – Learn practical tips
for navigating air travel, advocating across personal and
legislative levels, applying for guide dogs, accessing low vision
rehabilitation services, and addressing mental health.
- Science Plenary Session: Inherited Retinal Disease Genetics
– Explore the importance of genetic testing and updates on
various retinal diseases, including retinitis pigmentosa, Usher
syndrome, Stargardt disease, Leber congenital amaurosis,
age-related macular degeneration.
- Fireside chat with Judge Tatel – Foundation board chair
David Brint engages in a
conversation with Judge David Tatel
about vision loss, his career, and his latest book. Judge
David Tatel served on the United States Court of Appeals for the
District of Columbia Circuit from 1994 to 2023. Prior to that, his
three-decade career as a civil rights lawyer included private and
government positions, and focused heavily on equal educational
opportunity and access to justice.
- Awards – The Foundation will present the Lulie's Light
Award, recognizing chapters' contributions to the Foundation's
mission.
During VISIONS 2024, attendees will hear from David Brint, outgoing board chair, reflecting on
his tenure, and Karen Petrou,
incoming board chair, sharing her vision for the Foundation's
future. Their insights will provide a valuable perspective on the
Foundation's journey and future direction.
"We are thrilled to host VISIONS 2024 conference in Chicago this year," says Jason Menzo, chief executive officer, Foundation
Fighting Blindness. "We're looking forward to sharing the
tremendous progress being made by Foundation-funded scientists and
researchers across the globe. This conference is truly a
one-of-a-kind experience for individuals and families in the blind
and low vision community to connect on our mission in one
place."
VISIONS 2024 is made possible by the generous support of
partners and sponsors, whose commitment to the Foundation's mission
is invaluable. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to: Gold Partner
& Keynote Speaker Underwriter, Johnson & Johnson; Silver
Partners, Alkeus Pharmaceuticals and Ray Therapeutics; Bronze
Partners, Amgen, Apellis Pharmaceuticals, Atsena Therapeutics,
Beacon Therapeutics, Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Spark Therapeutics,
and Two Blind Brothers; and In-Kind Partners, Cleanlogic and
Feeldom.
Don't miss this opportunity to attend VISIONS 2024. To register,
learn more about the sessions and speakers, or how to become a
sponsor or exhibitor, visit
www.FightingBlindness.org/VISIONS2024.
About the Foundation Fighting Blindness
Established in
1971, the Foundation Fighting Blindness is the world's leading
private funding source for retinal degenerative disease research.
The Foundation has raised more than $915
million toward its mission of accelerating research for
preventing, treating, and curing blindness caused by the spectrum
of blinding retinal diseases including: retinitis pigmentosa,
macular degeneration, and Usher syndrome. Visit
FightingBlindness.org for more information.
Media Contact:
Chris
Adams
Vice President, Marketing & Communications
CAdams@FightingBlindness.org
410-423-0585
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SOURCE Foundation Fighting Blindness