Maverick Malech is an exceptional person. It wasn’t surprising to read the definition of the word maverick; a person who thinks and acts in an independent way, often behaving differently from the expected or usual way. Maverick, a gentleman who just happens to be legally blind from Retinitis Pigmentosa, holds true to his name. Last year he competed and completed Hawaii’s grueling Ironman Triathalon. With lifeguard escorts to ensure he was swimming in the right direction Maverick finished the 2.4 mile ocean swim. He then biked the 112 mile bike course amid the 87 degrees tropical heat and 85 % humidity. The crowning accomplishment was to complete a marathon running 26.2 miles in sizzling heat. Amazing, inspirational….and so much more. Congratulations to Maverick for such an accomplishment and being a true inspiration to others. Maverick, yes I think the name fits, but to us he will be The Ironman.
In December the Food and Drug Administration approved a new drug to treat ”wet” Age Related Macular Degeneration, AMD. The new drug, Macugen (pegaptanib sodium injection) attacks the “wet” type of AMD. Wet AMD progresses rapidly as new blood vessels form behind the retina and then leak causing damage to the retina. Macugen works by inhibiting the protein VEGF, retarding the growth of these blood vessels.
A recent study identified a gene that may be responsible for half the cases of AMD. Researchers site that a variation in the complement factor H gene, CFH, is present in many that have the disease. This genetic component is more common in those with the disease although a person can still have the CFH gene without developing AMD. This information doesn’t have a lot of significance for patients with AMD, but will aid researchers in finding treatments. Environment also may play a part with AMD. People should be aware that factors such as smoking, a high fat diet and obesity put them at a higher risk for the disease. The positive thing to remember is that a healthy lifestyle consisting of a diet rich in green leafy vegetables and fruits high in antioxidants & beta carotenes, supplements like lutein, sensible eye protection from the suns harmful UV rays, and not smoking can help lower your risk.
Some of you who have pets may be interested in the SPCA’s Guardian Angel Future Care Program. Its purpose is to make sure animal companions have a good home to go to should anything happen to their human companions. The SPCA will take care of the animals until a loving home is found for them. The detailed information you provide about your pet’s needs and preferences enables them to find a good home much more easily than for animals they know nothing about. The program also provides information about how to designate friends or family members as the future guardians of your pet. For more information about this free service call Susan Koza at the SPCA at 373-2631.
Country Store & Auction has been an annual fund raiser for many years now. There is a wonderful group of people who consistently support the event, but we have found that attendance and community support has been dwindling with each year. You are important to us and we need your help. If you have any constructive suggestions or input that would breathe new life into the affair please let us know. Country Store began as a fund raiser, but we also would like it to be a pleasurable get together.
Call Russ Hatch 659-5360 or BVIC 649-3505 to donate a vehicle or find out about our newest Chariots on the lot.
We are especially thankful to the California Endowment for their continued support by awarding the BVIC a $20,000 grant.
Thanks to all who have generously sent in their Memberships. Our Membership Drive begins in the beginning of our fiscal year, but runs year round so it’s never to late to send yours to the BVIC.
March 14th is our next meeting. The topic is Ideas & Adaptive Aids. Robin, our Rehab Specialist, will be sharing items with Janet, Dr. Case & the group. Meetings are normally held the 2nd Monday of the month from 5:00 to 6:30 at the BVIC. For info or & to confirm time & date please call the BVIC.
The Human Race, Monterey County’s largest collaborative fund raiser, is being held at Toro Park on June 4th. It’s time to begin collecting pledges for this community fund raiser. Keep in mind this is a win win situation for all. The BVIC earn’s 75% of each pledge collected and the Volunteer Center which helps many community based organizations keeps the remaining 25%. As usual our staff will be striving to fill their pledge sheets. This year Randy Henson will be walking in memory of his wife Kathy Henson, our former Executive Director. As many of you know first hand, Kathy loved the Blind Center and participated in many Human Races along with her Guide Dogs, Brahma & Bobbie. For those of you who would like to honor Kathy’s memory and help Randy fill his BVIC pledge sheet, send your tax deductible donation to the BVIC. Please make your checks payable to the Human Race, and indicate your pledge is in honor of Kathy’s memory. If you would like to join us walking the Human Race and/or help collect pledges let us know.
Don’t forget to save Saturday, September 17th for our 2nd Annual BBQ & Horseshoe Tourney at Toro Park.
Spring, is a time for yard work and house hold projects, but also a time when preventable eye injuries occur. Remember to take the time to always use safety glasses or goggles when necessary. That one incident could happen to you. Be safe and wear adequate eye protection.
The Center will be closed on Monday, May 30th for Memorial Day.