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LET'S DO THIS VEGAS!!!!!!!
EYE LOVE LACEY
Laura Bowsher’s first time to participate in the Las Vegas VisionWalk was a huge success! With an ambitious goal of $5,000 her team, Eye Love Lacy raised over $5,800! Laura’s 7 year old niece, Lacey, has been diagnosed with Stargardts Disease.
From Laura "Lacey is an amazing young girl who seems to touch the heart of many people. Ever since she was a little girl, her intelligence, sense of humor, her independence, and her ability to wrap everyone around her finger was incredible. As Lacey became older, she continued to amaze those around her. She is talented in dance, gymnastics, soccer, and most importantly a good student. What is most amazing about Lacey today, is her honesty and empathy towards others. She is caring, considerate, and expresses herself far beyond most 8 year olds.
 When Lacey was diagnosed with Stargardts Disease, it challenged each of us close to her to become stronger. Lacey needs all of us to be strong and supportive. Lacey's support team at school has been incredible so far, and Lacey is learning about her disease and getting more comfortable with asking questions. Being a Special Education teacher, I know the importance of presenting the facts, but also to present the facts in a positive way. Lacey's disease is not being portrayed as a secret or as anything that she should be ashamed of. Kids in Lacey's class are learning along side of her, and are free to ask questions as well. I know the importance of educating to increase understanding and acceptance.
The road ahead for Lacey may not be perfectly paved, but it will get her exactly where she needs and wants to go. Standing together, with Lacey, and with other Vision Walk families, makes our voices louder and our presence and cause greater. Together, each person doing his or her part, can spread knowledge and awareness faster than standing alone. I am hoping through Vision Walk, we can increase the opportunities to meet other families facing similar challenges, and create a support group amongst ourselves, but most importantly for the "Lacey's" that will be facing new obstacles. Although, we try and be the top fundraiser, in the end, we all strive for one common goal: To make the lives better for the ones that we love.
 I vow to always do my part for Vision Walk and for Lacey. May we continue to stand together, to stand strong, to stand united, and to stand for research! I believe that a cure for one leads to a cure for all!"
Knowing there is no treatment or cure available for this disease, her family is fighting for her sight! There was some friendly competition as her sister’s Eye Love Lacey team, in Philadelphia that rasied over $7,000. To date, the Eye Love Lacey team’s nationwide effort has raised over $15,000 towards research for the cure for Lacey!
Laura was introduced to the Foundation by her sister who captained the Philly team and her efforts were largely supported by her family and colleagues in the Las Vegas area. She had an exceptionally large student effort from the various clubs and organizations at Cimarron high school where her partner is a long time teacher.
The fundraising doesn’t stop there! There is a third Eye Love Lacey team walking this spring in Indianapolis!
Laura included this quote on her fundraising emails:
"Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light."
Helen Keller
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