Through Our Eyes

Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation
  • 5.0 (6)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

Welcome to the "Through Our Eyes" podcast by the Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation. We are a community of visually impaired young adults talking about what it's like to navigate through high school, college, career, and beyond. We tap into our experiences and cover a wide range of topics providing you with actionable tips and strategies you can implement in your own life.

  1. Advocacy, Active Learning, and the Ripple Effect of One Voice with Paula Korelitz | Ep #41

    JAN 30

    Advocacy, Active Learning, and the Ripple Effect of One Voice with Paula Korelitz | Ep #41

    As the founder of the Children's Low Vision Resource Center, Paula Korelitz spent decades turning advocacy into action for children with visual impairments and their families. In this conversation, she walks through the early days of meeting families in the NICU, building resources that did not exist, and connecting education, research, and real-life learning in meaningful ways. Paula shares why active learning changed her practice, how the Resource Center introduced families to tools, teaching strategies, and community support, and what she believes parents, educators, and young adults need to hear today. This episode highlights the power of early advocacy, thoughtful education, and one voice willing to build what systems had not yet created. Join PRRF April 17-19, 2026 for a powerful weekend that educates, inspires, and unites. Saturday's Family Connection Conference brings education and resources to families affected by pediatric retinal diseases, while Sunday's Hope for Vision Walk brings together our community to fund critical research and programs. Participate in one or both events, either virtually or in person at Oakland University in Rochester, MI: https://prrf.org/upcoming-events/united-in-hope/ You can find more episodes and ways to get involved with the Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation here: https://linktr.ee/throughoureyespodcast

    48 min
  2. Independence in the Kitchen: Tools and Real-Life Skills with Debra Erickson | Ep #40

    12/18/2025

    Independence in the Kitchen: Tools and Real-Life Skills with Debra Erickson | Ep #40

    Chef and educator Debra Erickson, founder of The Blind Kitchen, shares how vision loss from retinitis pigmentosa led her from culinary school to building a resource hub for blind and low-vision cooks. She discusses adaptive tools, smart safety strategies, and the freedom that comes when cooking feels possible again for kids, teens, and adults. You'll hear practical ideas for building kitchen confidence, from simple nonvisual techniques like keeping a sink of soapy water ready, to tools such as work trays, cut gloves, and predictable setups for blind cooks. Debra shares ways families can support young children learning to help in the kitchen, how teens and adults move from fear to independence, and why step-by-step exposure to tools and heat builds real skills over time. Explore the products mentioned in this episode, video resources, recipes, and more at theblindkitchen.com Follow The Blind Kitchen on social media: ·       Instagram: @theblindkitchen1 ·       Facebook: @theblindkitchen ·       LinkedIn: @Debra Erickson – The Blind Kitchen ·       YouTube: @theblindkitchen You can find more episodes, upcoming events, and ways to get involved with the Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation here: https://linktr.ee/throughoureyespodcast

    39 min
  3. Courage Across Continents: Wallace Stuckey's Leap to London

    12/04/2025

    Courage Across Continents: Wallace Stuckey's Leap to London

    When opportunity called, Wallace Stuckey answered by moving from Washington, DC to London to pursue his master's degree. His story is about curiosity, courage, and the practical side of starting a new life in a global city.  Through stories of learning new systems, meeting people from around the world, and finding accessibility in unexpected places, Wallace reminds us that growth often begins the moment we step outside what's familiar.  You can find more episodes, upcoming events, and ways to get involved with the Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation on our website at prrf.org Connect with us here: https://linktr.ee/throughoureyespodcast

    31 min

  4. 09/23/2025

    Finding Hope and Community: Lisa and Aria's Journey with PRRF | Ep #38

    In this heartfelt episode of *Through Our Eyes*, host Nicole Giudici welcomes Lisa LoVasco and her daughter Aria to share their emotional journey navigating Aria's diagnosis of a rare retinal disease, FEVR. As a new mom, Lisa recalls the overwhelming flood of unfamiliar information during that first doctor's visit, wishing for a simple, doctor-backed resource folder to guide families away from the chaos of online searches. Feeling powerless in the face of a condition with no family history, Lisa quickly sought community through PRRF—initially via early connections and Dr. Capone's guidance—turning involvement into a healing process. For over five years, they've embraced events like the Hope for Vision Walk and Family Connection Conference, transforming isolation into tangible action for research and support. The episode shines with stories of resilience, like Aria's instant bond with Mia Doben, another young girl with FEVR, sparked at a conference meet-and-greet that felt like a "dream come true." Their friendship has blossomed through playdates, shared adventures, and mutual parent support, easing the loneliness of being "the only one" at school or in the neighborhood. Lisa, a Family Advisory Committee member, offers advice for new families: stay hopeful, lean on doctors for facts, and seek community to combat the unknowns. Aria chimes in with walk highlights—donuts, hill races, and glittery hair—while sharing her vibrant life of choir, violin, dance, and upcoming 11th birthday sleepover. Tune in for inspiration, and join the Hope for Vision Walk on September 28, 2025, at prrf.org to celebrate connections that fuel hope and research.   Don't forget to like, share, and leave a comment to help us spread hope to more families. Together, we can make a difference. Connect with us here: https://linktr.ee/throughoureyespodcast

    27 min

  5. 07/15/2025

    Shaping a Bright Future: Sheldon Lewis' Story of Adaptability | Ep #37

    In this episode of the Through Our Eyes Podcast, we speak with Sheldon Lewis, a dedicated professional and family man who lives with a rare inherited condition called choroideremia, which causes progressive vision loss. Sheldon shares his journey, starting with his diagnosis at age nine and navigating the challenges of vision loss without much familial support in his early years. Despite these obstacles, he built a career in the textile industry, married, and raised two sons who are free of the condition. Sheldon's story takes a pivotal turn in his mid-forties when a fall due to his worsening vision led him to embrace the white cane, opening doors to greater independence and community support. His resilience shines through as he transitioned in his sixties to a fulfilling career in accessibility technology, working with a company that provides free website accessibility solutions for disability-focused nonprofits. Sheldon's story is one of perseverance and adaptability, as he reflects on overcoming fear, learning to use tools like screen readers, and finding purpose through advocacy and creative pursuits like songwriting with AI tools. He emphasizes the importance of trying new things despite challenges, engaging with his grandchildren to foster understanding, and encouraging parents to discuss future possibilities with children who have vision loss. Sheldon also offers practical advice for the sighted community, urging them to communicate directly with visually impaired individuals and offer help respectfully. His work on a new website, Vision Adventurers, aims to inspire and provide resources for the visually impaired community. The episode concludes with a heartfelt message about resilience, humor, and the power of community, leaving listeners inspired by Sheldon's ability to reshape his future despite vision loss.   Don't forget to like, share, and leave a comment to help us spread hope to more families. Together, we can make a difference. Connect with us here!: https://linktr.ee/throughoureyespodcast

    36 min

  6. 06/16/2025

    Through David's Eyes: Thriving in School with a Rare Retinal Condition | Ep #36

    Join us on this heartfelt episode of Through Our Eyes by the Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation, where Megan, a devoted mother, shares her journey raising her visually impaired son, David. Diagnosed with a rare pediatric retinal condition at six weeks old, David faced significant challenges, but with the support of an exceptional Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI), an inclusive school, and a tailored Individualized Education Program (IEP), he's thriving in first grade. From learning Braille to playing goalball with classmates, David's story highlights resilience, advocacy, and the power of community in ensuring every child can succeed. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about navigating school life, fostering inclusivity, and empowering children with visual impairments. Visit PRRF.org for more on supporting families and research into rare retinal conditions. #ThroughOurEyes #VisualImpairment #InclusiveEducation   Don't forget to like, share, and leave a comment to help us spread hope to more families. Together, we can make a difference. Connect with us here!: https://linktr.ee/throughoureyespodcast

    18 min

  7. 05/21/2025

    Undefined by FEVR : Laura's Inspiring Path | Ep #35

    🎙️ Meet Laura, a remarkable young woman from Michigan living with FEVR, a rare retinal disease. Diagnosed at 18 months, she's blind in one eye but embraces life fully, from her job in memory care to training her service dog. Laura shares how her family's support and an IEP helped her thrive, urging others: "FEVR doesn't define you—it's just part of your story." Tune in for her inspiring journey and visit PRRF.org for more on pediatric retinal research! #RareDisease #Podcast #ThroughOurEyes Don't forget to like, share, and leave a comment to help us spread hope to more families. Together, we can make a difference. Connect with us here!: https://linktr.ee/throughoureyespodcast

    13 min

  8. 05/09/2025

    25 Years of progress: A Fireside Chat with Dr. Capone & Wallace Stuckey | Ep. #34

    Wallace Stuckey returns to the Through Our Eyes podcast for an in-depth conversation with Dr. Capone of the PRRF. From early childhood surgeries to navigating significant milestones like high school, college, and grad school at King's College in London, Wallace discusses overcoming challenges with the support of his family, medical team, and assistive technology. He offers insights on advocating for accessibility, embracing technology, and building a robust support system, while also sharing his passion for public service and personal hobbies like walking accessible trails and traveling. This fireside chat highlights resilience, determination, and the power of community in achieving success. Don't forget to like, share, and leave a comment to help us spread hope to more families. Together, we can make a difference. Connect with us here!: https://linktr.ee/throughoureyespodcast

    32 min
See All (42)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Welcome to the "Through Our Eyes" podcast by the Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation. We are a community of visually impaired young adults talking about what it's like to navigate through high school, college, career, and beyond. We tap into our experiences and cover a wide range of topics providing you with actionable tips and strategies you can implement in your own life.

Information

  • Creator
    Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2022
  • Show Website
    Through Our Eyes