A Lion volunteer, as part of the Lions Low Vision Network worked with the local Senior Center Director to schedule a presentation to Senior Center members on Low Vision.

22 people attended and the presentation which was well received with a lengthy question and answer session at the end. When finished, one the participants approached the Lions presenter and asked for help in scheduling a Low Vision Assessment with a Doctor in our network.

The Lion picked the Low Vision practitioner closest to the area and scheduled the appointment. The patient subsequently asked for transportation to and from the appointment which was provided by another Lion volunteer.

The Low Vision Assessment confirmed that the patient suffers from severe glaucoma and surgery related scarring on her cornea. Close vision could be significantly improved with low vision assistance tools that would improve her ability to read anything both inside and outside the home and improve her day to day quality of life.

Low vision tools recommended included an LED illuminated stand magnifier for reading books, magazines, newspapers, etc., a pocket LED hand magnifier for use outside the home for reading price tags, labels in stores, menus, etc. and, an LED illuminated desk lamp with a charging port to significantly improve the home reading area.

The patient was not financially capable of purchasing these products on her own so, her local Lions club agreed to sponsor the case and contributed $100 towards the purchase and the District’s Sight & Hearing Fund covered the remaining balance.

A great example of community outreach to spread awareness combined with the resources of the Lions Low Vision Network and the individual Lions willingness to serve…all combining to improve the quality of life for a local resident.