Stories

Being diagnosed with anything can be hard, and you certainly will go through a range of emotions. You are not alone. Many have been in your shoes and have dealt with their diagnosis in different ways. Some feel a sense of relief when they can share their stories with others who are going through a similar situation. The Foundation Fighting Blindness is a beacon for those affected by blinding retinal diseases. With our Beacon Stories, we share individual’s journeys with their disease and how their drive fuels them to pursue their passions. Not only do we find their stories aspirational, we believe these individuals are true beacons of strength, champions of courage, and advocates for hope. We hope these stories provide you with light that will get you through the darkness. Collectively, we are stronger together – as a community. Do you have a story you'd like to share with the Fighting Blindness community? Let us know at Marketing@FightingBlindness.org.

Filter Results

Filter by Type
Filter by Topic

Displaying 101–110 of 160

  • Oct 15, 2020

    Maeva’s Independence With Her White Cane

    We’re celebrating White Cane Awareness Day with spirited 5-year-old Maeva, who is an independent explorer thanks to her white cane.

    Beacon Stories

  • Oct 5, 2020

    The Dutterers Aren't Afraid to Share Their Story

    Steve and Dot Dutterer have kind and approachable personalities that captivate everyone they meet. With their expansive network, and a lot of hard work and dedication over the past 19 years, Steve and Dot have raised more than $743,000 for the Foundation through the Baltimore VisionWalk.

    Beacon Stories

  • Jul 6, 2020

    Rocketing to Success

    Tracy was the fourth generation of his family to receive the diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa, but he never let that stop him from dreaming big. Tracy has worked at NASA’s Johnson Space Center for over 36 years, making significant contributions over the many years.

    Beacon Stories

  • Jun 15, 2020

    Jumping into an Uncharted Arena

    Thirty-one-year-old Wren Blae Zimmerman always loved horses. But it wasn’t until a few years ago that Wren finally learned to ride. Now her life revolves around this equestrian dream, and she’s given herself the title of the “Blind Show Jumper.”

    Beacon Stories

  • May 27, 2020

    Lulie Gund: Beloved Philanthropist, Role Model and Confidant

    Llura Gund, often referred to as Lulie, was known for her infectious kind smile and love of life.

    Beacon Stories

  • May 26, 2020

    How To Qualify For Social Security Disability Benefits With Vision Loss

    A guide to receiving Social Security Disability Benefits if you have vision loss or are legally blind.

    Beacon Stories

  • May 18, 2020

    An Artist, First and Foremost

    Allen has always wanted to be known as an artist, first and foremost. His photography hints at the ever-changing nature of people’s lives and their environment, much like his own progression with retinitis pigmentosa (RP).

    Beacon Stories

  • Apr 20, 2020

    Coping with COVID-19: Welcome to the “New Normal”

    We checked in with a few of the Foundation’s volunteers to get their perspective on these unprecedented times.

    Beacon Stories

  • Apr 13, 2020

    Sue Lives Life to the Fullest and Wants to Help Others Do the Same

    Meet Sue Sanger. Sue was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) at the age of 29 but has continued to travel, advance in her legal and political career, and more. In the following story, Sue explains, in her own words, all she has accomplished since learning she has RP and why she’s a supporter and member of the Foundation Fighting Blindness Legacy Society.

    Beacon Stories

  • Apr 6, 2020

    Carolyn’s Beauty Within

    Carolyn is a business professional and beauty industry leader in Raleigh, North Carolina. In spite of her diagnosis with retinitis pigmentosa, Carolyn pursues exactly what she wants and knows what she is purposed to do in her life.

    Beacon Stories