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(A photo of someone giving a gift on a red background with text that reads: “Help us give the gift of sight this season)
December is a time of reflection, giving, and coming together as a community. It’s also a month dedicated to raising awareness about blindness and advocating for eye health. At the Conklin Davis Center for the Blind, we’re proud to support initiatives that shine a light on these important issues and provide services for individuals at every stage of vision loss.
This month, several observances encourage us to focus on vision health and safety. Here’s what you need to know and how you can make a difference:
This observance, led by Prevent Blindness, reminds us of the invaluable role healthy vision plays in our lives. Whether it’s reading a book, seeing a loved one’s face, or pursuing a passion, good vision is a gift worth protecting.
How You Can Help:
Support sight-saving organizations.
Volunteer your time to help those living with vision loss.
Advocate for early detection and regular eye exams in your community.
Geographic Atrophy Awareness Week (Dec 2–8, 2024)
Did you know that geographic atrophy (GA) is an advanced form of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? This condition causes gradual loss of vision in the center of the visual field, impacting daily activities like reading and recognizing faces.
What You Can Do:
Educate yourself and others about AMD and GA.
Encourage loved ones to schedule comprehensive eye exams, especially if they’re over 50.
Explore resources for early intervention and support services.
Safe Toys and Celebrations Month
The holiday season is full of joy and excitement, especially for children. However, it’s important to choose toys that are safe for young eyes. The American Academy of Ophthalmology advises against toys that launch projectiles or have sharp edges, as they can cause serious eye injuries.
Holiday Safety Tips:
Choose age-appropriate toys with safety certifications.
Supervise children during playtime.
Store small or sharp objects out of reach to prevent accidents.
Your Vision Health Checklist
Caring for your eyes is a year-round priority. Here are some key steps to maintain healthy vision:
1️⃣ Get Regular Eye Exams: Early detection can save your sight.
2️⃣ Eat a Balanced Diet: Leafy greens, carrots, and omega-3-rich foods can work wonders for your eyes.
3️⃣ Protect Against UV Rays: Sunglasses aren’t just a summer accessory—UV rays are present year-round.
4️⃣ Quit Smoking: It’s one of the best things you can do for your eyes and overall health.
How We’re Making a Difference
At the Conklin Davis Center for the Blind, we offer life-changing programs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. From independent living skills to vocational training, we’re here to help at every stage of life.
Join Us This December
This December, take a step to protect your vision or support someone who is navigating vision loss. Together, we can create a world where blindness isn’t a barrier to opportunity or independence.
Learn more about our programs and how you can get involved by visiting our website or giving us a call. Let’s give the gift of sight and hope this holiday season.
Because when we see the world clearly, we can make it brighter for everyone.
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