Hundreds of people gathered to help raise approximately $125,000 during the 2012 Eye Ball Gala, which was hosted by The Lions Eye Institute for Transplant & Research and took place on October 6 at T. Pepin’s Hospitality Centre in Tampa. LEITR raised awareness for the more than 285 million blind and visually impaired people throughout the world and brings the organization one step closer to unlocking the cure for blindness.
Throughout the night, LEITR showcased the need for ocular advancements, as well as the research LEITR is pioneering to help the blind and visually impaired. Several guest speakers shared their stories, including those currently battling eye disease and corneal transplant recipients whose sight is restored thanks to LEITR.
“Before my surgeries, I couldn’t even see leaves on trees,” says Samantha Barlow, a 24-year-old corneal transplant recipient. “Now, with the help of LEITR, I am able to attend college and live on my own.“
LEITR honored two professionals dedicated to advancing ocular research. Dr. Lewis R. Groden was presented with the Light of Sight Award. Dr. Groden is a leading refractive surgeon and faculty member at the University of South Florida, Department of Ophthalmology, where he teaches up-and-coming eye surgeons about advances in laser vision correction. Dr. Henry F. Edelhauser was also honored with the Innovation and Research Award. Dr. Edelhauser helps lead ocular research at Emory University and serves on LEITR’s research advisory board.
“This event is our annual platform to show everyone the global impact that blindness and visual impairments have on people of all ages, genders and ethnicities,” says Jason Woody, president and CEO of LEITR. “We are proud to have had such wonderful speaker-advocates join us this year and are incredibly thankful to all of our sponsors and attendees who helped us surpass our fundraising goals.”
In addition, Mrs. World, April Lufriu, also joined the gala and shared her passion for furthering ocular research. A few years ago, Lufrui and her two young children were diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease that leads to blindness. It was this diagnosis that inspired Lufrui to raise awareness for eye disease and encourage the blind and visually impaired to live life without limits.
