Shows
Through Our EyesRaising a Blind Son and Finding Community with Kim OwensKai Owens was known as No Fear Kai. Around age eight, he suddenly didn't want to leave his mom's side. For two years, doctors told his mom, Kim, it was anxiety. A jumbled Christmas list finally showed her something physical was happening with his sight. In this episode, Kim shares what she'd tell other parents: trust your gut, push for the right tests, and don't let the medical search take over your child's childhood. She talks about fighting for braille and access in school, teaching Kai to speak up in his own IEP meetings, and how an...
2026-10-2826 min
Through Our EyesMusic, Media, and Building Even Though I'm Blind with Cazerny BusseyCazerny Bussey lost his eyesight at 15. He was a sophomore at the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts in New York City, already performing, already building something. Losing his sight could have stopped all of it, but it didn't. In this episode, Cazerny — Brooklyn-born recording artist, author, speaker, father of five, and Founder and CEO of Even Though I'm Blind, Inc. — shares how losing his sight became the beginning of a bigger vision. He talks about graduating with his class when no one knew how to accommodate a blind student, growing up with a blind father who was...
2026-10-2131 min
Through Our EyesListen to the Kids: Advocacy, ROP, and Life as Sam of Mrs. ChaosSam didn't expect to leave her daughter's eye appointment with a diagnosis of her own. But three days after bringing her premature daughter home from the NICU (where ROP had already become part of their story), she mentioned some symptoms to the ophthalmologist and was seen an hour later with a detached retina. In this episode, Sam — a special education teacher, mom of three, and the creator behind @MrsChaos212 on social media — shares the honest, funny, and sometimes overwhelming reality of navigating vision challenges as both a parent and a patient. Her message to every paren...
2026-09-2934 min
Through Our EyesInside the Lab with Dr. Michael Risner and Dr. Luis Villa-DiazWhat does it look like to do the research that could one day change outcomes for children with retinal disease? Dr. Michael Risner and Dr. Luis Villa-Diaz can tell you firsthand. Both assistant professors and researchers at the Oakland University Eye Research Center, Dr. Risner and Dr. Villa-Diaz were awarded a pilot grant through PRRF to support their work in pediatric retinal research. In this episode, they pull back the curtain on what life in the lab really looks like, why research takes as long as it does, and what role donor funding plays in keeping that...
2026-09-1527 min
Through Our EyesRethinking What's Possible: Career, Ham Radio, and Podcasting with Jessica DailJessica Dail was born weighing one pound, two ounces. She has ROP and her vision fluctuates from day to day. She also holds a job she loves, has a ham radio license, hosts her own podcast, and is writing a book. In this episode, Jessica shares her story, from fighting to learn braille in fourth grade, to building a career in public transportation, to launching Rethinking Blindness, her own podcast platform for the blind and low vision community. Resources and links mentioned in this episode: Jessica's Website: https://jessicadail.com/ Jessica's E...
2026-08-1329 min
Through Our EyesOne Step at a Time: From Vision Loss to a Doctoral Degree with Carlos T. RezaIn 1998, Carlos T. Reza was a correctional officer in California when he first noticed something was wrong with his vision on the firing range. Within a year, after multiple surgeries and a cornea transplant, he had lost vision in both eyes. In this episode, Carlos sits down with Jeanne McClellan to share what it was really like to navigate vision loss in his early thirties — medically retiring from the prison system, learning to use a cane, picking up braille, and then deciding, with no college experience, that he was going to earn a doctoral degree in psychology....
2026-07-2845 min
Through Our EyesLearning Through Touch: The Story of the BrailleDoodle with Dawn CampbellAccessibility doesn't have to come with a complicated price tag or a steep learning curve. Sometimes the most powerful tools are the simplest ones. In this episode, Dawn Campbell, Chief Operating Officer of the TouchPad Pro Foundation, shares the story behind the BrailleDoodle — a tactile learning device that helps blind and low vision children and adults explore braille and independent learning through touch. And here's a bonus: it doesn't require batteries or an internet connection. Dawn shares how the BrailleDoodle came to life out of a teacher's determination to reach his students during the pandemic, and...
2026-07-0731 min
Through Our EyesThe Science Behind Pediatric Retinal Research with Dr. Kenneth Mitton and Nicole GiudiciMost people know that research takes time. Few people understand what that actually means — the decades of experiments, the failed hypotheses, the teams of students, and the quiet persistence that eventually moves something from a lab to a clinical trial. In this episode, Dr. Kenneth Mitton, Director of the Pediatric Retinal Research Laboratory, and Nicole Giudici, MS, PA-C and member of the PRRF Board of Directors, pull back the curtain on what research really looks like. Dr. Mitton traces the decades-long journey from the discovery of the protein at the center of Norrie disease and FEVR to wh...
2026-06-2340 min
Through Our EyesPartnership & Parenthood with Vision Loss Featuring Breyanna & Matthew SoperBreyanna Soper was diagnosed with FEVR at nine years old. By her early twenties, she had lost the majority of her functional vision. What she didn't lose was her determination or, eventually, the partner who would walk every step of that journey with her. In this special Father's Day episode, Breyanna and her husband Matthew join us for an honest conversation about what life, love, and parenthood really look like when one partner has significant vision loss. They share how they met, what it took for Matthew to truly understand what living with low vision meant, how...
2026-06-0926 min
Through Our EyesYou Can Build This: The Story of Bricks for the Blind with Matthew ShifrinMatthew Shifrin was 13 years old when a family friend typed out the first ever set of accessible Lego instructions for him on a braille typewriter. That experience changed everything. A decade later, Matthew founded Bricks for the Blind, a nonprofit that has adapted over 550 Lego sets and now reaches blind and visually impaired builders in more than 120 countries, all for free. In this episode, Matthew shares the story behind Bricks for the Blind and what it really means for a blind child to be able to build a Lego set independently — the confidence, the joy, the learning, an...
2026-05-2639 min
Through Our EyesIndependence, Mobility, and Assistive Technology with Mike MulliganWhen Mike Mulligan went to get contacts before a high school basketball game, he had no idea that appointment would change the entire trajectory of his life. He was diagnosed with Coats' disease at 18. Mike then built something he never expected: a career dedicated to helping others navigate vision loss with confidence, independence, and possibility. In this episode, Mike shares his journey from diagnosis to becoming both a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist and a Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist, and the work he does today through Blind On the Move. He breaks down why Braille still matters...
2026-05-1231 min
Through Our EyesAdvancing Pediatric Retinal Care: Leadership and Legacy with Dr. Antonio CaponeDr. Antonio Capone has spent his career changing what is possible for children with retinal diseases. In this episode, he shares the journey from his early start in psychiatry to finding his calling in pediatric retina, where precision surgery meets long-term impact. You'll hear how the field evolved over decades, why severe ROP cases declined, and how training specialists around the world helped bring sight-saving care closer to home for families. Dr. Capone also explains how PRRF expanded beyond research to support parents raising children with rare retinal disease, and why the greatest challenge today is not a...
2026-04-1451 min
Through Our EyesThe Power of Eye Patching: A Mother-Daughter Story with Cathy and Mackenzie ThompsonWhat does it actually take to get a toddler to wear an eye patch every day for five years? According to Cathy Thompson, founder of Patch Pals, it takes routine, distraction, flexibility, celebration — and a patch that a child actually wants to wear. In this episode, Cathy and her daughter Mackenzie share the story behind Patch Pals: how a cataract diagnosis led to a daily patching battle, how Cathy's homemade solution changed everything, and how that idea grew into a business that has quietly reshaped how families and doctors approach amblyopia treatment. Now in her thirties, Mackenzie re...
2026-03-2646 min
Through Our EyesAssistive Technology and Everyday Independence with Jule Ann LiebermanJule Ann Lieberman's path into assistive technology grew out of curiosity, persistence, and a desire to stay independent. What began as an interest in learning more about technology evolved into graduate study, professional certification, and a career dedicated to helping blind and low vision individuals access the tools that support school, work, and daily life. In this episode, Jule Ann shares her journey as both a low vision professional and someone living with vision loss. She reflects on teaching future specialists, supporting clients of all ages, navigating public transportation with a guide dog, and evaluating emerging tools...
2026-03-0249 min
Through Our EyesAdvocacy, Active Learning, and the Ripple Effect of One Voice with Paula Korelitz | Ep #41As 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...
2026-01-3048 min
Through Our EyesCourage 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 Co...
2025-12-0430 min
Through Our EyesFinding Hope and Community: Lisa and Aria's Journey with PRRF | Ep #38In 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...
2025-09-2327 min
Through Our EyesThrough David's Eyes: Thriving in School with a Rare Retinal Condition | Ep #36Join 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...
2025-06-1618 min
Through Our EyesUndefined 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 familie...
2025-05-2113 min
Through Our Eyes25 Years of progress: A Fireside Chat with Dr. Capone & Wallace Stuckey | Ep. #34Wallace 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...
2025-05-0931 minThrough Our EyesUPDATES!! - What's Going On At The PRRF, The Podcast, & The Life Of Bri!!! | Ep #23Welcome to season 2 of the Through Our Eyes Podcast by the Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation! In this episode, Bri gives a life update and fills you in on everything coming up in season 2 of the podcast and some news and events with the PRRF!
2024-02-2108 min
Power to the PatientsPatient advocacy with Stephanie E. Saville, Foundation Manager for the Pediatric Retinal Research FoundationAs the dedicated Foundation Manager for the Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation (PRRF), Stephanie Saville offers a unique and enlightening perspective into the specialized area of pediatric retinal research. The PRRF is a volunteer-driven organization that focuses on rare pediatric retinal diseases, offering support for children and adults who experience vision loss.Throughout our conversation, Stephanie emphasized the challenges rare diseases face and explored the complexities of rare disease research.
Stephanie believes in the importance of understanding the 'why' behind the diagnosis, and the power of patient stories in driving change. Stephanie offers insights on how organizations can...
2023-10-1126 minPower to the PatientsPatient advocacy with Stephanie E. Saville, Foundation Manager for the Pediatric Retinal Research FoundationAs the dedicated Foundation Manager for the Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation (PRRF), Stephanie Saville offers a unique and enlightening perspective into the specialized area of pediatric retinal research. The PRRF is a volunteer-driven organization that focuses on rare pediatric retinal diseases, offering support for children and adults who experience vision loss.Throughout our conversation, Stephanie emphasized the challenges rare diseases face and explored the complexities of rare disease research.
Stephanie believes in the importance of understanding the 'why' behind the diagnosis, and the power of patient stories in driving change. Stephanie offers insights on how organizations can...
2023-10-1126 minThrough Our EyesEpisode #7 - Overcoming Impossible Circumstances /w Jennifer ZuckermanJennifer & Ashley Zuckerman have lived lives of overcoming impossible circumstances. Now seniors in High School, these fraternal twins were born 28 weeks premature with less than a 25% chance of survival. This was the first of many challenges that Jennifer, Ashly, and their family would face together. Due to Jennifer's premature birth, she developed retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), yet her sister Ashley had relatively normal eyesight. And that's how their story starts - one sighted sister and one blind sister. Despite this challenge, a beautiful relationship emerged that is a shining example for all siblings from all walks of l...
2023-01-0548 min
A roscachapa podcastCoaching de veganismo glaseado REDUX¡Hola, rosketors! Aquí estamos de nuevo con un episodio de improvisación (prrf, como si los demás estuvieran guionizados) en el que nos damos crédito por la subida de BOCS y en el que encontramos una nueva manera de torturar a la inocencia de La Rubia. También abrimos el melón de la peli de imagen real de Sonic y entramos en el turbio mundo de los Deep Fakes.
2019-03-1358 min