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HiveQueen Takes the Throne in Dreamscape Foundation’s Next Charity Stream
HiveQueen Takes the Throne in Dreamscape Foundation’s Next Charity Stream
For Robin (HiveQueen) streaming isn’t just a hobby or a way to pass the time. It became a way to cope and adjust to a new environment. 3 years ago Robin moved from her home in west Canada to South Korea with her husband in search of new opportunities. After finding herself struggling to make friends in her new home, her husband suggested she try streaming. Robin has always enjoyed playing video games, so it seemed like a great way to meet new people with common interests while also doing something she enjoys.
The Hard Working Bee
Robin has now been streaming in her spare time for the last 3 years. When Robin is not streaming, she is working at her full-time job as a teacher, or enjoying some quality “me” time. When asked what she enjoys most about streaming, Robin says that over the years her favorite part about streaming has always been getting to meet new people and build relationships with them. Twitch is all about coming together with people from all walks of life to share in their common interests, whether that be gaming or whatever you choose to stream about. Another really great thing about streaming Robin says, is the ability to help and give back.
Over the years, my favorite part about streaming has always been getting to meet new people and build relationships with them.
Growing up she loved to get involved with charity events in her community, but as she got older she found it increasingly more difficult to find the time to give back. Once she learned about charity streams as a way to give back, she was more than excited to take this opportunity to help. By using the connections, she has made over the years within the streaming community, she has been able to do multiple charity streams and raise not only money but also awareness for some very important causes. One thing that she wants people to know when they are watching her charity streams is that, even if you can’t afford to contribute financially, Robin makes sure everyone knows that their presence is support enough! Just by spreading the word and showing support in any way you can, you are making a difference.
Dreamscape and HiveQueen_
On Saturday February 29th beginning at 2pm (EST) Robin will be partnering with The Dreamscape Foundation to help raise funds and awareness to help get multiple visually impaired people the assistive technology they need to take back their lives! A quick message that she has for those within the disabled community… “you are not forgotten, there are so many people who will be coming together for this event and for them! If you are feeling alone or just horrible about something you have gone through, remember you are loved and cared for. You are not alone and there are people who have your back!”
With giving back in mind, Robin and the Dreamscape Team put their heads together to come up with amazing prizes and giveaways as a way to say thank you to all those who donate and support the event. Based on a tier donation system, your donations will award you a number of different gifts you are sure to love! Don’t believe me? Check it out for yourself:
(please note, all prizes ship US only)
- Tier 1 – $5:
- 1 Random Steam Key
- 1 Raffle entry to win a $50 Amazon gift card
- Tier 2 – $10:
- 1 Random Steam Key
- 1 Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 3 Raffle entries to win a $50 Amazon gift card
- Tier 3 – $20:
- 4 Random Steam Keys
- 1 Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 5 Raffle entries to win a $50 Amazon gift card
- Tier 4 – $50:
- 4 Random Steam Keys
- 1 Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 1 Fornite 7” Llama Loot Plush
- 5 Raffle entries to win a $50 Amazon gift card
- 2 Raffle entries to win a $100 Amazon gift card
- Tier 5 – $100:
- 4 Random Steam Keys
- 1 Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 1 Fornite 7” Llama Loot Plush
- 1 Mystery Funko Pop
- 5 Raffle entries to win a $50 Amazon gift card
- 6 Raffle entries to win a $100 Amazon gift card
- Tier 6 – $250:
- 4 Random Steam Keys
- 1 Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 1 Fornite 7” Llama Loot Plush
- 1 Mystery Funko Pop
- 1 World of Warcraft Official Cookbook
- 5 Raffle entries to win a $50 Amazon gift card
- 10 Raffle entries to win a $100 Amazon gift card
- A featured article on our Blog Page
With even more to come live from Robin during the stream, you definitely won’t want to miss this stream! So, remember to tune in on Saturday February 29th at 2pm to check out all they have planned for yourself. We look forward to seeing you all there!!
To find out more about Robin and the HiveQueen Community be sure to check out her Twitch Channel, Twitter, and Instagram to keep up with the buzz!
Written by Hannah Rich
« PreviousCamWeppTV’s Charity Stream Gives Thanks by Giving Back
CamWeppTV’s Charity Stream Gives Thanks by Giving Back
CamWeppTV, aka Cameron, first began her twitch journey on a channel called “2girls1twitch” with her friend. After getting to see more of what the twitch community is about, she decided to branch off into her own personal channel now known as CamWeppTV. This new channel was a great outlet for her to express her creativity in a safe and welcoming environment. Through her channel, she has created lifelong friendships within the twitch community that are always there to support her when she needs them.
A judgment free zone!
For Cameron twitch is not just a form of entertainment or a hobby to pass the time, it is a lifeline for her. Her channel has been a platform where she is free to be her authentic self, free of judgment. While many streamers showcase their gaming skills, Cameron uses her channel to feature her many talents, from art, singing/raping, comedy, to simply interacting with folks around her. When tuning into her channel, you might see her live streaming a public performance from places like the train station, or possibly witness her creating a canvas masterpiece.
Twitch- A platform for giving back
One of the many reason Cameron loves streaming, is the opportunity it provides her to give back to the community. Twitch has been such a big influence in helping her overcome the obstacles in her life, that she feels very fortunate to be able to use her channel to help others in the same way. Using twitch, she has done multiple charity streams to raise money for various causes. One stream she has done that is particularly near and dear to her heart, was for her friend that was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Using her channel, she was able to raise money that went to help paying for her medical bills. If there is one thing Cameron could pass along to other streamers like herself it is that even if you aren’t asked to do a charity stream, if you have the opportunity to do so, reach out and find ways to use your channel for good. There is no better feeling in the world than helping someone in need!
Charity Stream Details
Cameron’s charity stream will be on November 24th beginning at 2pm EST in support of aiding Penny Jackson in raising funds to purchase e-sight eyewear technology. Penny had suffered two strokes affecting the optic nerves in each of her eyes. This left her with only peripheral vision in her left eye, weakened vision in the right and high light sensitivity in both. With the help of this corrective e-sight eyewear, Penny will be able to regain not only her vision, but her independence as well. Cameron will be combining this fundraiser with her annual Thanksgiving stream. Some content you can look forward to seeing is cooking, comedy, singing, dancing, live art demos, and more! Like many other charity events we will be giving thank you gifts based on your donation tier, in addition to raffling off a few grand prizes. Prizes will consist of things like amazon gift cards, tee-shirts, headphones, art/creative writing supplies, Tiny Hands, and more! Prizes will vary based on the tier level of donations to the cause. Our goal for this event is to raise $1,000+ for Penny’s new glasses. Any amount you feel comfortable donating is greatly appreciated! Regardless of your ability to donate, we encourage and hope you tune in and enjoy the fun with the rest of this amazing online community on Sunday November 24th at 2PM EST!
To learn more about or stay up to date with Cameron and her Twitch Community, please check out her Twitch Channel, Twitter, or Instagram!
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Wearable Technology Gives Hope for Disabled
Wearable Technology Gives Hope for Disabled
With all of today’s advances in emerging technologies, have you ever wondered: How else could we use this for a greater purpose? Luckily, a few folks from Electronics of the Future and Florida International University (FIU) had that exact thought. They decided it was time to make a difference and began working on new advances in both wearable and assistive technology. Together, they have developed a skin sensing vision system for the visually impaired and have completely changed the way we look at medical sensing technology.
The Who and the What
Before we dive into this new evolutionary technology, lets introduce the creators. Dr. Michael Shur with Electronics of the Future has teamed up with Shubhendu Bhardwaj, John Volakis and team with the Florida International University (FIU), to push the technology industry forward and change the lives of many. They are working on two new products, currently in their final stages before launch to the open market.
The technology consists of both wearable and assistive technology. Wearable Technology is currently one of the fastest growing areas of the technology industry. Many of us can recognize these types of tech from popular products including Apple Watches, Fit Bits, and more. Whereas, Assistive Technology might not be as well-known to most. It can be defined as any device or software that helps people work around the challenges faced from a disability. These types of technology range from screen readers to hearing aids and help users regain the independence they may have once had.
Skin Sensing Vision System
Whether someone is completely blind or visually impaired, completing everyday tasks can be a challenge. Even just walking down the street can be a treacherous feat. That is where Dr. Michael Shur got his inspiration for his new Skin Sensing Vision System technology. One day when picking his son up from school, he noticed a child with a walking cane. The boy was hitting the edge of the curb with the cane and Shur thought to himself, “there’s got to be a better way”. So, he got to work on a mission to find it.
The tech consists of a flexible electronic device that has direct input to the human skin. Through the use of a camera and image processing data base, the device can accurately detect an object and compute its distance from it. Through two skin patches, signals will be transmitted from the device to the user, acting as an artificial eye. All new users will first need to complete a training course to familiarize themselves with the system. But after training, users will be able to distinguish what object is in front of them and how far away it is. Whether it be a tree or a bench, the device will signal the object and its distance/direction from them to the user. The best part is the system is built right into everyday clothing, such as a t-shirt. Being unlike anything else available today, this technology has the potential to change the lives of the visually impaired community forever!
Wearable Medical Sensing Technology
For many, mobility can be a real issue. For the elderly, disabled, amputee, or infant, it is hard to constantly keep track of various bodily functions. Even through the advancements we have had in medical technology, when movement is a problem having to constantly go back and forth to your devices can be a pain. Fortunately, Bhardwaj, Volakis and team have developed and improved wearable medical sensing and imaging devices. From heartbeat to blood pressure, all a user has to do is link their tech with their phone and they have constant access to their current readings. Taking this one step further, the readings can also be linked to their doctor’s office. Allowing the doctor to keep track and alert the patient should something be out of line. Now you might be thinking, “how big of a device do I need to strap across my body to do this?” Not to worry though, similar to the vision system, this device is also built right into your every day clothing. But it gets better still! The team has also developed wireless charging pads that can go right over furniture. This means, you could be wirelessly charging your t-shirt device while sitting at your kitchen table for lunch. Now it may sound great but whats the catch? How much is this going to run me? Luckily, this type of technology is very inexpensive and would be as much as other wearable tech devices we already have. Items like wristband heartbeat sensors or standard hearing aids. Not to mention what the insurance company will be able to cover.
So, with cheap costs and nothing but strong benefits why not keep a look out for the release of these new devices and ask your medical professional if something like this could one day be right for you. In conclusion, these new advances spell hope for the future of the disabled community overall and can help millions live a more accessible and easy life.
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Dreamscape Foundation: A Charity for the Disabled & Our Community
Dreamscape Foundation: A Charity for the Disabled & Our Community
Founded in 2013, The Dreamscape foundation was created when the founder, Joseph Sehwani was diagnosed with a rare disease at the age of sixteen that took away his vision. Since then, Joseph has created a vision of his own for people suffering from rare diseases. Providing individuals with scholarships, job aids, education accommodations, health aids and all amenities to help them succeed in life. This foundation focuses on supporting their future to provide equality.
Accessibility First
We know that living with a disability can negatively impact one’s chances of success in education and employment, but at Dreamscape Foundation, we believe that we have the power to do something to address this. While nothing can prepare us for an unanticipated disability, Dreamscape Foundation offers hope. Our non-profit provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities in their pursuit of education and life-fulfilling work.
Our mission is to aid the small population of people affected by sensory impairments to help them achieve success and to fund a cure. We encourage the community to embrace the use of accessible technology to ensure independence. In the past, Dreamscape Foundation had partnered with IT consulting company Intone Networks and accessibility software company User1st to build out our accessibility platform. The program is unique in that we are not aware of any other non-profit organizations who are committed to holding accessibility to such a high standard and provide similar services.
Dreamscape Foundation’s Mission
The commitment of Dreamscape comes from Joe Sehwani’s struggles and difficulties after he lost his vision in high school at sixteen. It is a privilege to work with a charity that works hard to ensure others struggling with similar disabilities are well taken care of and know that they are not alone.The prevalence of visual disabilities also stands to show the need for support for those who are blind or living with low vision. Across the world, 285 million people live with some type of visual impairment, with 39 million living with blindness and 246 million with low vision. In the United States, those with a visual disability account for about 2.2% of the total population.
Without accessibility, we do a disservice not just to the quality of life for those living with a disability – we also prevent them living to their fullest potential. Our charity can better justify program expenses that involve accessibility. This is illustrated clearly when we look at the number of working-age persons with disabilities in the United States who are employed. Right now, that number is only 35% – Dreamscape believes that with accessibility, that number can be much higher.
Helping our Community
Dreamscape partners with many other charities on both a local and national scale with many different missions. We support local charities by partnering with them on fundraisers, campaigns and events as well as support them with various product donations. At Dreamscape, we’re committed to addressing these issues and advocating for the changes needed to help those living with disabilities. Although living with a disability can be a struggle, we are here to assist and support.
« PreviousNext »TheDramaticPause goes all in for Dreamscape’s next Charity Stream
TheDramaticPause goes all in for Dreamscape’s next Charity Stream
Danny Burns, also known as TheDramaticPause grew up both a longtime multi-sport athlete and video game enthusiast. Standing at 6’4, playing competitive sports always came naturally to him. Playing everything under the sun including basketball and volleyball, but his love for video games was always a good way to relax. “Video games was something I always did. At the end of the day, playing Call of Duty Black Ops 2 Zombies or Halo Reach, or Halo 3 with the buddies online, this is what has always been there for me.” Now a full time twitch streamer, Danny goes above and beyond what his physical body can do! When it comes down to it, Burns has always believed in giving back and helping those in need. Volunteering for multiple organizations in the past, TheDramaticPause is looking to add Dreamscape Foundation to that list!
Working together, we will be raising funds to help Sean McDowell, a blind and deaf author, publish his first book. Sean is a man who has experienced a lot in his life, between battling addiction and readjusting to life after sight and hearing loss. Now, sober for over 30 years and having regained his independence, he is ready to help others do the same, using his own life as an example.
TLDR: Saturday July 13th, Danny (TheDramaticPause) will be hosting a 12 hour charity stream starting at 9:00 AM EST, with incentives: Prizes and Giveaways galore!
TheDramaticPause- The Man, the Myth, the Legend
Danny first learned about Twitch from a friend of his back in 2012 or 2013. They had started a quick scoping clan on Black Ops 2 and began watching some videos for fun. He admits though “I never watched too many videos though, until Overwatch came out.” When Overwatch came out, he turned to Twitch to help improve his skills and to learn more about the game.
After deciding against his original idea of going to college for movies, he started working for his family business. But it just wasn’t what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. He knew he had to make a change and turned to Twitch streaming. Danny made a smart decision and knew if it was something he was going to do, he had to be all in. So, he spent a year or two researching and learning the ins and outs of streaming.
Using the knowledge he gained learning about Twitch, he was ready to kick things off. But he needed to choose his name. It had to be something that people would remember and that meant something to him. He decided to honor his friends from college. They had planned to team up for the Heroes of the Dorm video game tournament but unfortunately never did. Their team name was going to be TheDramaticPause, so after getting permission from the guys, he took over the title and TheDramaticPause Twitch channel was born.
What to expect on Stream
Danny is in the process of completing his 12 hour stream challenge. What is that you might ask? Well for the month of July, he will be putting on a 12 hour long stream every single day! He will be playing Fortnite for the majority of his stream but there will be twists. Danny has decided to add a few fun incentives for different donation amounts. Some of the incentives include playing with his mouse inverted, dancing, letting viewers choose his mouse sensitivity, playing with a controller and allowing viewers to play along with him! But the biggest of them all, if someone donates the entire $1,000 goal, he will shave his head clean off, live on stream!!!
Additionally, for all those who donate, we have a special thank you prepared. Based off of the amount donated, donors will be placed into tiers and be awarded the following prizes:
Tier 1: $5
- 2016 SDCC Exclusive Halo Mega Bloks Figure
Tier 2: $10
- 2016 SDCC Exclusive Halo Mega Bloks Figure
- Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 1 Entry into the $150 Amazon Gift Card raffle
- 1 Entry into the $30 Gamestop Gift Card raffle
- Choice of 1: Danny Dancing, Playing with Inverted Mouse, or Mouse Sensitivity
Tier 3: $20
- 2016 SDCC Exclusive Halo Mega Bloks Figure
- Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 1 Random Steam Key
- 3 Entries into the $150 Amazon Gift Card raffle
- 3 Entries into the $30 Gamestop Gift Card raffle
- Choice of 1: Play with Danny, Make Danny Play with a Controller
Tier 4: $50
- 2016 SDCC Exclusive Halo Mega Bloks Figure
- Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 3 Random Steam Key
- Fortnite FunkoPop
- 5 Entries into the $150 Amazon Gift Card raffle
- 5 Entries into the $50 Gamestop Gift Card raffle
- Choice of 1: Play with Danny, Make Danny Play with a Controller
Tier 5: $100
- 2016 SDCC Exclusive Halo Mega Bloks Figure
- Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 5 Random Steam Key
- 2 Fortnite FunkoPops
- Choice of Fortnite Plush
- 10 Entries into the $150 Amazon Gift Card raffle
- 10 Entries into the $50 Gamestop Gift Card raffle
- Choice of 1: Play with Danny, Make Danny Play with a Controller
Tier 6: $250+
- 2016 SDCC Exclusive Halo Mega Bloks Figure
- Dreamscape T-Shirt
- 10 Random Steam Key
- 2 Fortnite FunkoPops
- Choice of Fortnite Plush
- $40 Gamestop Gift Card
- 20 Entries into the $150 Amazon Gift Card raffle
- 20 Entries into the $50 Gamestop Gift Card raffle
- Personal Blog Article featured on Dreamscape’s Blog
- Choice of 1: Play with Danny, Make Danny Play with a Controller
- If donation is $1,000 or more, Danny will shave his head bald (LIVE)
*Please note, all shipments are U.S. only*
Danny is excited to kick things off and is ready to see how his viewers react to his incentives. Additionally, he just wants everyone to have a good time and hopes whether you donate or not, you still tune in for the fun! So come join us on Saturday July 13th for an amazing time and to help out a great cause!
« PreviousNext »VISIONS: Preparing the Blind Workforce for an Independent Life
VISIONS: Preparing the Blind Workforce for an Independent Life
For as far back as we can remember, people with disabilities have had to struggle with living fully independent lives. For the blind community, the most common misconceptions are being seen as having an inability to complete normally daily or work related tasks due to their lack of sight. People instantly assume that an individual is unable to survive or live on their own. But in truth, independence and the ability to sustain oneself is the key to overcoming any struggle. The great people at VISIONS understand this concept and have made it their mission to aid the blind community of New York in achieving true independence.
What is VISIONS?
In the 1920’s a group of six women got together and started an organization dedicated to helping the blind community of New York. It began as a “Vacation Camp” where blind members of the community could come and spend up to two weeks at a time. But little did these six women know, what the future would hold for their little Vacation Camp. Over the years, this small get away and boarding service for the blind fostered into much more. Now, VISIONS has three locations throughout New York, that provide programs and services free of charge, to over 7,000 people every year! Their programs and services include in home training, job training and placement, rehabilitation and other programs for children, teens, adults and the elderly.
All of their rehabilitation services are conducted through a team effort. Their teams consist of Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapists (CVRT), Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists (COMS), Registered Licensed Occupational Therapists (OTR/L), and Licensed Social Workers. Together their teams help individuals and their families learn the techniques they’ll need to live with vision loss. Their ultimate goal is to help keep them active at school, home, work and in the community.
Focusing on Abilities not Inabilities
VISIONS was consecutively voted #1 in NY for job placement of legally blind persons in 2016, 2017, and 2018! I had the opportunity to speak with Michael Cush, the Senior Director of Workforce Development at VISIONS, who filled me in on their strategic approach. They utilize a teams of people who work directly with the clients, mostly on a one-on-one basis. They take an individualized approach to each new client they work with. “When a client comes into our offices, they all have one thing in common, they have a visual impairment, but different backgrounds and specific needs”, said Michael. They know everyone is different and just because their disabilities are similar that doesn’t mean their abilities are too. Their focus in on each person’s abilities and not their inabilities! They get to know the client and what strengths they have. Once that is determined, they begin their training and learning how to remain independent in the workplace. By utilizing technology and more, each individual can learn what works best for them to get the job done.
Going a step further, their Workforce Development team not only educates clients, but employers as well. They work diligently to teach businesses the truth about visually impaired employees. Its not that they cannot do their job because they are blind, but rather because they are blind, they need to do their job a different way. This is why many employers are blind to the abilities of their visually impaired employees and only see their inabilities. They are fixated on the idea that a job needs to be done one standard way, when in fact every employee is different and therefore so are their approaches.
VISIONS is an organization dedicated to making their community a better place for all people. Though they only service residents of New York, their online resources and hotline number are available to all! To learn more about their services, numerous resources including the BlindLine, and more please visit their website.
Interested in getting involved with VISIONS? Simply call their main number: (212) 625-1616 and someone will give you all the information you need! To keep up with all their news, updates and events you can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter.
« PreviousNext »Live Accessible Changes Lives for the Blind
Live Accessible Changes Lives for the Blind
Whether you were born with a visual impairment or developed one throughout your life, it can be extremely difficult to find the resources and tools you need. Over the years, accessibility concerns have been growing and a lot is being done to help the blind and visually impaired community. But while new accessible internet designs and assistive technology are being developed and implemented, we are still forgetting one thing… Knowledge. Where individuals or families impacted by a visual impairment may now be able to use assistive tech or access the internet, how do they know what tools and options are best for them? Or how they can research and learn about these new developments? That is where Live Accessible hopes to fill in the gaps.
Who is Live Accessible?
Live Accessible is a platform created to provide visually impaired people with resources and information they need to learn about the many programs, communities, technologies and more that are available to them. Additionally, they have a very active Youtube Channel, loaded with helpful tips and advice for the blind community. It was founded by Carrie Morales, a young woman who has lived her entire life with a visual impairment. Carrie was born with Aniridia, an eye disorder where the iris (colored part of the eye) is either partially or completely missing. This condition causes a loss of visual acuity and sensitivity to light. In addition, as Carrie got older, she developed Cataracts (age 6) as well as Glaucoma (age 15). Inside every eye, there is a natural lens that captures light to help us see. Cataracts cause this lens to become clouded and diminishes the ability of the eye to pick up light. Glaucoma is caused from a build up of pressure in the eye most commonly from excess fluid. The increased pressure in the eye damages the optic nerve, diminishing the connection between your eye and brain.
Carrie knows that life with a visual impairment/s can be difficult but it’s not just the disability that makes things hard. Growing up, one of the toughest difficulties she faced was the reaction from society. One of the effects of her visual impairments causes her eyes to move constantly. She does not always have a way to control it because her eyes are simply trying to focus on something they cannot. For her it was the reactions she would get from people in her every day life and the stereotypes that came with them. But she did not let this discourage her! With the help of her Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI) and different organizations providing her and her parents with resources, she was able to figure out what was out there to help her. Without these, she never would have known about the assistive technology or programs that could help her and her family. Additionally, through these resources she found the visually impaired community. Just being with and talking to people who understood what she was going through helped her to finally not feel alone.
Using Personal Experiences to Help Others
Despite these conditions and difficulties, Carrie has remained positive and now wants to use her own personal experiences to help others struggling with conditions/difficulties of their own. But she is not alone here! Her husband Pablo, who in his mid-twenties went completely blind, also brings his own unique experiences and perspective to Live Accessible. Pablo went from having perfect vision to being completely blind within a matter of hours due to a medical mistake. Additionally, they have a son, Pablo Joseph, who also has a visual disability. Together, they want to help those facing their own difficulties find the resources they need to fully equip themselves with the knowledge necessary to live a fully accessible life. Whether it be tech related, parenting advice for a child with visual impairments or parents with visual impairments, and much more! With a combination of constant resources and information provided on their site, along with the walk throughs, tips and tricks for the blind on their Youtube Channel; Live Accessible, wants to give people the knowledge they need to live a life without limits.
At Live Accessible, they are clean and clear with their goals and purpose. “We don’t claim to know everything but, we have a lot of experiences and want you to take advantage of them.” Dedicated only to helping people educate themselves and not feel as if they are alone!
To learn more about Live Accessible and see all they have to provide, you can check out their site or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube!
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Guiding the Blind Community with the Lighthouse of Collier
Guiding the Blind Community with the Lighthouse of Collier
You wake up with the sun shining through your window. The bright glare is so much to bare that you draw the curtains before getting up to begin your day. Now picture this; you wake up and its as if your eyes are still shut or perhaps you cannot tell if the shades are drawn or if there even is a glare coming into the window at all. This is the reality for many who suffer from a visual impairment whether its complete blindness or partial. For these people, they may never know what the sun looks like or how bright stars shine at night. But outside of the world’s natural beauty, there is much more we use our sight for just to live independently. The folks at the Lighthouse of Collier County know the difficulties many face daily and are committed to doing their part in helping them live an empowering and independent life!
What is the Lighthouse of Collier County?
Founded in 2009 and celebrating their 10th anniversary this April, the Lighthouse of Collier County (LOC) is a blind and visually impaired professional care service center. They provide training and rehabilitation services for people of all ages, at no charge, to help those in the community who are blind or visually impaired. All their programs are tailored to each individual’s specific needs and sessions (both group and individual) are conducted year-round.
Being the only rehabilitation center for blindness and vision loss in Collier County, LOC has made a commitment to their community. However, actions speak louder than words! So, what have they done thus far to prove this commitment? Well, to date they have offered and provided services to roughly 14,000 children and adults in the Collier County only! Additionally, their goal is not just to help people get through today but to give them their independence back and help them get themselves through every day to come! And if that doesn’t shout commitment and care, I don’t know what does!
Their mission is to foster independence and enhance the quality of life for the blind, visually impaired and their caregivers. We had the opportunity to speak with LOC’s Executive Director Scott Flagel and asked him to elaborate on their mission. “It’s very straightforward and simple; we are here for the blind, visually impaired, and their caregivers and the whole mission is to enhance the quality of their life”. He went on to say, “It’s not clinical in nature. It’s really to make sure someone can live independently and to make their life more manageable”.
Staff, Instructors and Accreditations
Committed to ensuring all rehabilitation training will be instructed by certified and qualified staff, LOC’s instructors all are required to meet or exceed the contract standards established by the Florida Division of Blind Services. Currently, they employ the following certified positions:
- Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapists (CVRT’s)
- Certified Assistive Technology Instructors
- Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists (COMS)
- Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI)
- VIISA Certified
With the help of their elite staff and continued efforts, the Lighthouse of Collier holds a Guidestar Platinum Status and is nationally accredited by the National Accreditation Council for Blind and Low Vision Services.
Services Provided
The programs and services provided continue to increase and expand based upon needs in the community. Additionally, they come with no financial burden what so ever; “We do not charge for services, so it does not matter where you live in collier county, if you need services you get them and there is no cost to you”, said Scott Flagel. Blindness can happen to anyone and it does not care whether you are rich or poor, so why should the services you can receive be any different! Please see below for the complete list of their services:
- Independent Daily Living Skills
- Vocational Rehabilitation
- Orientation and Mobility
- Assistive Technology
- Early Intervention/Babies (birth – 5yrs)
- Children’s Programs (5yrs to 14yrs)
- Transition Program (14yrs to 22yrs)
- Support Group for Individuals who are Blind/Visually Impaired
- Care Takers and Parent Support Group
- Braille Training Program
- Lecture Lunch (Brown Bag Lunch) Series
- Recreation and Social Activities
Everyone has a place to call home. Somewhere they have people they love and care for. And every home has a community with neighbors and like-minded people, who will defend and help their own. That mentality is the basis for how the Lighthouse of Collier came to be and 10 years later they still continue to take care of their home!
« PreviousNext »11 Facts You Should Know About LHON
11 Facts You Should Know About LHON
No one can prepare themselves for a life altering disability. The best you can try to do is gather an understanding of what is going on with your body. We’re glad to share this information and to help anyone going through the condition, with these 11 facts about Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy.
Onset effects Young Adults
When Dreamscape founder learned of his disability, he was only 16 years old. Often, we listen to similar stories of those effected by LHON. People usually develop LHON mid-late teens, and is described as loss of sharpness and a fading of color vision. The vision loss mainly affects central vision, which is needed for tasks such as reading, driving and recognizing faces. In a small percentage of cases, the central vision loss can improve; but in most cases loss of vision is permanent. It’s only after a year or so living with the disability, is when people fully adapt to their new surroundings. With the help of accessible technology, and charities like Dreamscape Foundation, you too can find the freedom you are looking for!
LHON is Painless but Quick Acting
You can rest a bit easier to learn that LHON’s onset is a painless one. The experience on the other hand, can throw quite a curve ball. It only takes a few moments for the central vision loss to kick in, leaving only peripheral view. We often hear stories of rapid blindness, usually after rubbing ones eye. In some cases, one eye will start to be effected before the other. The other eye’s condition soon worsens, at an average of 8 weeks after the initial onset. LHON is still has a cloudy reputation, as most people have never heard of the hereditary disability. It’s a good reminder to know that most of the visually disabled are not 100% blind! This can be a common misunderstanding, due to outdated stereotypes of the blind.
LHON is Transmitted by the Mother
LHON is passed down to children primarily due to mutations in the mitochondrial (rather than the male nuclear) genome, and only the egg contributes mitochondria to the embryo. Mitochondria constantly convert energy locked in our food into energy that the cell can use, and are small sub-units that reside within the cell. LHON follows a mitochondrial pattern of inheritance, also known as maternal inheritance. Only egg cells contribute mitochondria to a developing embryo, therefore only females can pass mitochondrial conditions to their children. Fathers affected by LHON or carrying LHON mutations do not pass the condition to their children.
Discovery of Disability
This disease was first written and described by the German ophthalmologist Theodor Leber in 1871, only 31 years old at the time. In said paper, Leber described 4 families in which a number of young men suffered abrupt loss of vision in both eyes either simultaneously or sequentially. This disease was initially thought to be nuclear linked but was subsequently shown to be mitochondrial.
Other Useful LHON Facts
- LHON affects both males and females, but more commonly found in men.
- The birth prevalence of LHON is approximately 1 in 50,000 people.
- More than 50% of men and more than 85% of women with a mitochondrial mutation will never experience vision loss.
- Without a known family history of LHON the diagnosis usually requires a neuro-ophthalmological evaluation and blood testing for mitochondrial DNA assessment.
- “LHON Plus” is a name given to a rare variant of the disorder with eye disease together with other conditions. (Many cases of LHON plus have been comparable to multiple sclerosis because of the lack of muscular control.)
- In 1988 Wallace et al. identified the nature of the first known causative mutation (50-70% of all LHON cases).
- The other two mutations known to cause LHON were identified in 1991 (8-25% of all LHON cases) and 1992 (10-15% of all LHON cases).
Perseverance Paves a Path
Perseverance Paves a Path
There are days when our disabilities feel debilitating. From physical to cognitive limitations, seemingly easy activities most people take for granted can feel like Mount Everest. Yet whether you were born with a disability or you develop one, it’s important to remember that your condition is not the end of life.
For motivation, we’ve brought a handful of stories to the table not only to inspire but to remind us that doors will open to those whose perseverance paves a path.
Henry Webler Chased His Love for Science in Spite of His Lack of Sight
If anyone knows the fight for accessibility, it’s Henry Webler. His heart had no room for limitations when it became enamored with science at a young age. While in high school his own teacher tried to dissuade him from pursuing a career in science due to his blindness, Webler refused to take no for an answer.
He knew what he wanted and he was determined to do whatever necessary to make that dream come to fruition. Yet there were hurdles; many hurdles. In a world where accessibility isn’t universal to every environment and field, you have to speak up and find solutions for your limitations if you want to succeed.
Webler realized this, but he wasn’t afraid to be innovative and vocal about his needs. Eventually, the same teacher he doubted became one of his biggest advocates as he carved a path that led to success.
Now 30, Webler has a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of California and is the Founder of the nonprofit Accessible Science. The organization provides resources and tools to blind students so they can participate in the exploration and learning of science in spite of their limitations.
Mandy Harvey Finds the Music Even After She Lost Her Hearing
When Mandy Harvey sings, her pitch is perfect. Her whole body seems to immerse itself in her music as she weaves a profound blend of melody and lyrics. A natural musician, you would never know while listening to her performance that she is deaf.
Harvey wasn’t born deaf but rather lost her hearing at the pivotal age of eighteen, just as she was chasing her dreams through the vocal music education program at Colorado State University.
It’s a tragedy that would stop many in their tracks. Understandably so, for how can you learn to create an art tied to the sense that was stolen from you by connective tissue disorder called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome type 3?
Harvey left school when her hearing obstructed her education and for two years fell into a deep depression. Yet her heart refused to give up. Harvey found a way to find the music inside of her again. She had to; it was a part of who she was.
Using a visual tuner, she sang until the device turned green. Her father heard and wept, and Harvey realized her gift hadn’t left her. It was still there and she could embrace it. The epiphany began a new chapter that started in clubs and music halls until it led to the stage of America’s Got Talent.
Through the challenges and loss, she rediscovered herself and the career she had yearned for nearly all her life.
Finding Open Doors in Spite of Your Disability
For some, Webler and Harvey’s stories may feel unobtainable. We marvel at these individuals as anomalies, as if their achievements are exceptions to the rule. Yet the truth is that while we may have our limitations, there is power in perseverance. Webler and Harvey are both everyday people who simply refused to give up.
As Dreamscape Foundation Founder Joe Sehwani said after he lost his vision, “I had only lost my sight – not my vision. In fact, LHON gave me a clarity I didn’t have before. It gave my life purpose.”
We can either view our disability as a weakness or we can find new vision by carving a path for ourselves and our desires. While the challenges may not make it easy, the satisfaction of achieving your dream is worth it.
Will you fight to make them accessible?
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