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Sessions at VISIONS 2013VISIONS 2013 offers a variety of session types to enhance your overall experience at the conference. Please note that many more sessions will be added. We encourage you to check back as we are able to update. Currently scheduled sessions include the following:
Science & Information SessionsThe Argus II Retinal Prosthesis: Learning to See AgainThis session will explore how the Argus II retinal prosthesis, the first device of its kind to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, may benefit people with late-stage retinitis pigmentosa. Expert panelists will discuss how the device works and what is involved from a patient's perspective. Stem Cells 101What exactly is a stem cell? Where do they come from? How can they be used to save or restore vision? In this session, these and many more fundamental questions will be answered by some of the world's top stem cell experts. Stem Cells 201This session is perfect for those who already have a grasp of the stem cell basics. Researchers will expand upon the different applications and sources for stem cells, and provide details of their current work to move these treatments into human studies. This session is a natural continuation of Stem Cells 101. Gene Therapy 101Learn the basics of gene therapy - What is it? How does it work? Who can benefit from it? What are the pros and cons? This session will also review some of the clinical trials being planned and underway. New Technologies and RP: Clinical Trial UpdatesThis session will include results from Retina Implant AG and Okuvision GmbH's European clinical trials. Dr. Jay Federman of Wills Eye Institute in Philadelphia will explain the clinical trial results of patients implanted with Retina Implant's wireless Alpha IMS subretinal, 1,500 electrode microchip designed to restore functional vision to blind retinitis pigmentosa patients. In addition, he will provide an update on the results of a study using the OkuStim® transcorneal electrical stimulation (TES) therapy in RP patients with mid-stage disease. Dr. Federman will discuss how both technologies work, patient results achieved in European trials thus far and plans to bring these trials to the U.S. Genetics Personalized: The Important Role of Genetic CounselingSpeaker: Karmen M. Trzupek, MS, CGC, Informed Medical Decisions, Inc.If you or a family member is affected by a retinal disease, you know that navigating genetics can be an overwhelming task. Genetic counselors act as educators, counselors and health care navigators and can take the stress out of genetic testing. In fact, genetic counselors can be found working side-by-side with clinicians in many of the large FFB-funded clinical research centers located around the country. In this session, you'll learn about the current state of genetic testing and the role of genetic counselors in helping patients and families with inherited retinal diseases. Participating in a Clinical TrialThe decision to participate in a clinic trial should not be made lightly. It can be a big commitment in terms of time and enduring lots of tests and exams. Furthermore, a clinical trial is an experiment with risks. This session will cover all the aspects of a human study you should know about and consider before signing up. Topics will include: inclusion and exclusion criteria, what to expect during study visits, open-label versus placebo-controlled studies, and why clinical trials are essential to the advancement of treatments and cures. Additional Science & Information Sessions you can expect at VISIONS 2013
Keynote SessionsOvercoming the Emotional Barriers of BlindnessFeaturing Guest Speaker: Michael HingsonThe Foundation Fighting Blindness is excited to present New York Times best-selling author and international lecturer Michael Hingson as the VISIONS 2013 keynote speaker. Blind since birth, Michael survived the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks with the help of his guide dog, Roselle. Through his book, "Thunder Dog," Michael has inspired thousands, giving readers a transformative look into the life and boundless capabilities of the blind. In this session, drawing upon his own experience, Michael will demonstrate that overcoming the challenges and adversity of blindness is all about overcoming a misguided attitude about blindness. Lifestyle SessionsFrom Diagnosis to Dynamic FutureSpeaker: Maurice Scott Peret, NOMCT.In this interactive discussion, the panelists representing blindness professionals, community advocates, and individuals coping with vision loss will share their perspectives and experiences along with addressing questions from the audience. Topics covered include:
Recreation & Sports for Blind and Visually Impaired Youth & Young at HeartSpeaker: Sandy White, Blind Sports OrganizationThis fun, interactive presentation will help youth (ages 7+), young adults, parents, physical educators and recreation specialists become familiar with some of the most popular sports in which the blind and visually impaired can participate. These activities can be shared and enjoyed by families. Our hope is that every blind and visually impaired youth & adult will go home with a goal of getting more involved in healthy, physical activities, even if organized physical activities for the blind and visually impaired aren't available in your community. Mobility Options - Cane or CanineSpeaker: Rod Haneline, Leader Dogs for the BlindIn this session, you will learn how to evaluate your lifestyle, physical abilities and independent travel goals to determine whether a cane or guide dog is best for you. The presenter will discuss the differences between the two options, including the training processes, expectations and pros/cons of each mobility option. Participants will have a clear understanding of the responsibilities and expectations one should have depending on the option chosen. Success in the WorkplaceSpeakers: Darlene Peregoy and Brian Hurley, National Industries for the BlindIn this interactive discussion, the panelists representing blindness professionals, community advocates, and individuals coping with vision loss will share their perspectives and experiences within the workplace, along with addressing questions from the audience. Education Options for a Low Vision Child and the Parents’ RoleSpeaker: Dan Wenzel, Blind Industries and Services of MarylandAs a child who is blind or low vision progresses through the education system, his or her parents are the one constant throughout each transitional phase. While the environment, curriculum, teaching professionals and education trends change, the parents are actively involved throughout the child's educational journey. A child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) is important for educational success. This interactive session will help parents ensure that the knowledge and expertise they possess is utilized during the educational journey of their child who is blind or has low vision. The T.A.S.K. of Living with Vision LossSpeaker: Dan Roberts, Dan Roberts M.M.E.In this session, you will learn the four essential elements of living successfully with vision loss: Tenacity, Adaptability, Support, and Knowledge (TASK). Speaking from personal experience, author and “patient expert” Dan Roberts will also discuss the most important information needed by patients:
iPad/iPhone: Beyond Zoom and Hot Crackin’ Apps!Speakers: Dawn E. Turco and Douglas Walker, Hadley School for the BlindUsing Zoom is just scratching the surface when it comes to the vision accessibility features on Apple’s iPad and iPhone. In this session, you will explore the power of hidden iPad vision features and learn about exciting accessible apps and accessories that will make using your iPad a much more enjoyable experience. Know Your ADA RightsSpeaker: Timothy Elder, TRE Legal Practice, LLCPeople who are blind have longstanding legal rights to access government programs, education, employment, public accommodations and other aspects of social life. The enforcement of these rights in an increasingly technology-dependent world requires that doctors, advocates, educators, administrators and disabled persons learn how the ADA applies in the wake of the Internet and accessible information technology. In this session, prepare to learn the recent changes in disability law and how to think about the rights as a blind or visually impaired person in a brave new digital world. Regaining Independence: From Frustration to FreedomSpeaker: Charlie Collins, Vision Dynamics, LLCIn this interactive discussion, the panelists representing blindness professionals, community advocates, and individuals coping with vision loss will share their perspectives and experiences along with addressing questions from the audience. Treating RP with Vitamin A, DHA and LuteinSpeaker: Eliot Berson, M.D., Ph.D., Massachusetts Eye and Ear InfirmaryDr. Eliot Berson will present his clinical trial findings and recommendations for the use of vitamin A, DHA and lutein in preserving vision in people with retinitis pigmentosa. If you have RP, come and learn if these treatments are appropriate for your particular condition, and how they might benefit you. Attending a School for the BlindSpeakers: Dawn E. Turco, Douglas Walker, Lou Tutt and Kim WalkerToday's schools for the blind offer a variety of services to eligible students, their parents and blindness service providers. Hear what's new and get your questions answered by a panel of experts. A Road to a Brighter TomorrowSpeaker: Michael HingsonAcknowledging the barriers of blindness and gaining the confidence to move forward, learn how to apply that energy to reaching the goals you never thought were obtainable. In this session, Michael Hingson, New York Times best-selling author and international lecturer, will touch on topics such as:
Chapter Volunteer SessionsWhat is Your Leadership Story: Finding the Leader WithinSpeakers: Everett T. Shupe II, MBA, CAE, CMP, Shupe PlansHave you ever heard of the elevator speech? An elevator speech is the collection of bullet points you are supposed to memorize in case someone asks you what you do. The intent of the elevator speech is to get people interested in learning more about you as a leader. But, what happens when someone is interested and wants to know more. The next step is developing your leadership story. This is the story you tell to engage, inspire and motivate others. During this workshop, attendees will identify key components of your story and you will also learn how to listen to other people's story so you make the connections necessary to be an effective leader. Where Leadership & Raising Funds Connect: Skills Every Leader Needs in Their ToolboxSpeakers: Everett T. Shupe II, MBA, CAE, CMP, Shupe PlansLeadership is fun, dynamic and exciting; it can also be intimidating, challenging and exhausting. In your role as chapter leader you will have the responsibility of raising funds. The skills needed as a chapter leader and fundraiser are not exclusive. This session will motivate Foundation Fighting Blindness (FFB) volunteers and provide them with tools and knowledge to help them to be more successful fundraisers and chapter leaders. During this workshop, attendees will explore the topics of delegation, effective communication, time management and other topics that will lead to chapter leadership success. Cast the Net Wider: Taking FFB to New HeightsShare, learn and discuss grassroots efforts to help spread awareness about the exciting things the Foundation is doing in your community. Learning From Our LeadersBrainstorm with event leaders from across the country to create successful strategies for overcoming common obstacles in event and VisionWalk fundraising. Disease Overview SessionsDisease overview sessions will cover the basic disease and research information related to a specific condition. They serve as a nice "refresher" at the start of the conference to catch everyone up to speed. The Disease Overview Sessions will be break-out sessions organized by disease.
The Doctor Is InTraditionally, these sessions have been broken into groups organized by disease. In 2013, we will have one series of The Doctor Is In Sessions organized by disease and another series organized by research area to include topics such as gene therapy, stem cells, etc.
Meet & Mingle Networking SessionsThese informal social gatherings allow guests to meet others in similar life situations who share their hopes and challenges of living with vision loss.
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2013 SPONSORS
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