Everyone Deserves a Lifetime of Good Vision

I have had the privilege of being part of the Retina Foundation of the Southwest at two different points in my career. My first experience was 10 years ago, when I worked as a study coordinator. In that role, I worked directly with patients and families participating in clinical research for inherited eye diseases.

I saw firsthand the courage of families who were willing to participate in research, often while living with an eye disease that had limited treatment options or no cure. I also saw the dedication of the researchers and staff working to better understand these conditions and find new treatments.

After my time as a study coordinator, I left the Foundation and went on to pursue other opportunities. But the work I had witnessed stayed with me.

Last year, I was fortunate enough to return to the Retina Foundation—this time in an administrative role where I can help support the organization and its mission in a different way. Coming back after several years has given me an even greater appreciation for the work being done here. I already knew how important our research was, but returning has allowed me to see the incredible impact of the Foundation from a broader perspective.

One of the things that makes the Retina Foundation so special is that all exams and testing are provided to our patients at no cost. This helps ensure that families can access specialized evaluations and participate in important clinical research without the financial burden of extensive testing.

Our researchers are working on clinical studies for a variety of inherited eye diseases, including conditions for which there are currently no cures. Every patient who participates, every exam performed, and every study conducted helps move us closer to better treatments, and hopefully, one day, cures.

I returned to the Retina Foundation because I believe in this mission. I have seen the work firsthand, both as a study coordinator and now from the administrative side, and I know how much dedication goes into giving patients and families hope for the future.

This North Texas Giving Day, I’m asking you to join me in supporting the Retina Foundation of the Southwest. Your donation helps provide free exams and testing to patients and supports the research that could change the lives of people living with inherited eye diseases.

I’ve seen this mission from both sides, and I’m proud to be part of it again. Thank you for helping us advance research, support families, and work toward a future where inherited eye diseases can be treated and ultimately cured.