What\’s Next in Your Journey Through Vision Loss
Join us on World Sight Day for What’s Next in Your Journey through Vision Loss, an empowering in-person event presented in partnership with Ascidian Therapeutics. Guided by the themes of Engage, Empower, and Elevate, the afternoon will offer meaningful education, personal connection, and practical tools for navigating the path of vision loss. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a long-time member of the blind or low vision community, or someone who supports them, this event is designed to meet you where you are—and help you take your next step forward.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, October 9, 2025
Time: 1:00–4:30 PM (EST)
Location: The Carroll Center for the Blind, Rachel Rosenbaum Technology Center, 770 Centre Street Newton, MA 02458
This in-person event is free to attend, but space is limited. Be sure to register early to secure your spot. The presentations will be recorded and shared with our community after the event. If you have any questions or need help registering, please email development@carroll.org or call (617) 969-6200 x 237.
What to Expect
- Welcome & Opening Remarks | 1:00–1:15 PM
Greg Donnelly, President & CEO of The Carroll Center for the Blind - ENGAGE | 1:15–2:10 PM
Educate Yourself: What’s Next After Diagnosis
Learn from experts in clinical research and emerging treatments. Explore medical outlooks, promising therapies, and opportunities to participate in clinical trials. - EMPOWER | 2:10–3:00 PM
Supportive Services and Resources: Push Past the Obstacles
Discover practical tools, emotional supports, and community programs that build independence and confidence for those adjusting to vision loss. - ELEVATE | 3:00–3:30 PM
Patient Perspective
Be inspired by the personal story of Havah Fleisner, Miss Teen USA 2024, who has embraced her journey with vision loss and turned challenge into strength. - Explore & Connect | 3:30–4:30 PM
Enjoy a social hour connecting with others and exploring interactive stations:- Assistive Technology Tools
- Low Vision Solutions
- Daily Living Techniques
- Shop The Carroll Store’s adaptive products
About the Sessions
ENGAGE
Martha Steele will serve as the moderator for this session. Martha is a former state epidemiologist and long-time advocate for vision research and public health. She brings a wealth of experience in scientific communication and community engagement. Joining her is Ben Shaberman, Vice President, Science Communications at the Foundation Fighting Blindness, who works closely with researchers and clinicians to advance emerging treatments and educate the community on clinical trials and therapeutic breakthroughs. Rounding out the panel is Bob Bell, Chief Scientific Officer at Ascidian Therapeutics, a biotechnology company developing innovative genetic medicines with the potential to transform treatment options for people living with inherited retinal diseases.
EMPOWER
This discussion will be moderated by Tina Laffer, a licensed mental health professional with extensive experience supporting individuals who are blind or visually impaired. She is deeply committed to fostering resilience, inclusion, and well-being within the community. Tina will lead a panel of qualified experts with a vast knowledge in counseling for individuals with vision loss.
ELEVATE
Havah Fleisner, crowned United States of America’s Teen 2024, made history as a trailblazing titleholder who is legally blind. Throughout her year of service, she inspired audiences nationwide through her platform, Through Her Eyes: Living Life Legally Blind, encouraging people to embrace their differences and view challenges as strengths.
Diagnosed with Stargardt’s Macular Degeneration at the age of nine, Havah is now 16, and the oldest of three siblings who all share the same vision condition. Rather than letting her diagnosis define her, she has used it to fuel a mission—reminding others that your story is your testimony—and it’s meant to be shared.
As a national titleholder, Havah spoke at Vision Forward’s 100th Anniversary Celebration, visited classrooms, appeared in radio interviews, and actively supported organizations focused on disability awareness. She collected over 500 pairs of eyeglasses for the Lions Club, mentored younger students with visual impairments, and frequently performs the national anthem at community and sporting events.
Outside of advocacy, Havah has modeled at New York Fashion Week, proudly representing young women with disabilities on one of fashion’s biggest stages. She also competes in halter horse shows at the American Quarter Horse Show.
Now a senior in high school, Havah plans to pursue a degree in communications and public relations.
What an inspiration she has been to young people across the nation. Havah has shown that with hard work, dedication, and accessibility, you can accomplish more than you ever imagined. She hopes to continue sharing her story to inspire others—no matter what challenges they may face—to keep pushing forward, to do hard things, and to always seek out ways to reach their goals. Her message is clear: find the purpose and passion God gave you—and make it happen.
