Angela
Angela is a force to be reckoned with in her unwavering dedication to advocating for accessibility and empowerment for the blind and visually impaired. Join us as we delve into Angela’s remarkable journey alongside her guide dog, Hara.
Josh
Josh was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and began seeing Dr. Simmons at VIA. After beginning a series of orientation and mobility sessions, along with vision rehabilitation, Josh was able to navigate his day-to-day life better.
florence
Shortly after Florence was born, she was diagnosed with Bilateral Microphthalmia and Bilateral Coloboma, qualifying her as legally blind. Upon diagnosis, Florence’s parents worked diligently to ensure success at home, school, and life!
Rose
Rose was diagnosed with Macular Degeneration. Thanks to some help from VIA's workforce development program, Rose discovered her pathway to independence to get her GED and start a career at Jamestown's National Comedy Center.
Jordan
Jordan was diagnosed with glaucoma when he was 12 and started coming to VIA when he was 16. VIA has helped Jordan relearn what he was able to do before experiencing vision loss and continues to go through visual rehabilitation training to learn skills to be successful in his career his hobbies. Watch Jordan's new VIA partnered YouTube channel, Taste Unseen.
Angela
Angela has retinitis pigmentosa, but with VIA’s help, she has discovered new ways to enjoy the things she does while living with a visual impairment. One of her favorite activities is attending Bills games, which she continues to attend after adjusting to stairs and other surroundings with support from VIA’s vision rehab specialists.
ERICA
Erica was diagnosed with mitochondrial disease, causing her to become legally blind. After help from VIA, Erica is not only learning how to regain her independence, but she is also thriving in her community.
Kaily
Kaily was born in Puerto Rico with retina dystrophy. Before she came to VIA, she was unsure of the next step in her career, but with the help of VIA’s workforce development program, she quickly found her pathway to success.
NICK
Nick Hlifka was born with Leber's disease, sometimes known as Leber Heredity Optic Neuropathy (LHON), and ocular albinism. With Nick's can-do attitude, In 2021, VIA nominated Nick for the National Industries for the Blind (NIB) Peter J. Salmon Employee of the Year Award.
TRISHA AND ZACH
Trisha and Zach were diagnosed with Aniridia, and according to them, VIA's programs are the best thing ever for the pair. Trisha and Zach use various rehabilitation services from VIA, and since doing VIA's READY program, the family tries new experiences regularly!