THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR AN AMAZING BLACK TIES & BLINDFOLDS!!
It was a great night and we raised over $30,000 for inherited retinal disease research and support for diagnosed families.
Black Ties & Blindfolds is an annual fundraising gala hosted by MOMS for Sight, Inc. Net proceeds go to sight saving research and support programs for those affected with inherited retinal diseases. Prepare for a great experience including cocktails, "Dining in the Dark" dinner, a presentation, a silent auction, a beautiful venue and everyone coming together for a great cause!
When: October 14, 2023 5:00pm - 9:00pm
Where: Margaritaville Beach Hotel, 715 1st. Street N. Jacksonville Beach
Where: Margaritaville Beach Hotel, 715 1st. Street N. Jacksonville Beach
meet the speakers
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Dr. Emily Townsend Cobb is a physical therapist who specializes in pediatrics and women’s health. She earned her B.S. in Exercise Science from Florida State University in 2012, and received her doctor of physical therapy from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in 2015; becoming the first blind doctor of physical therapy in the United States. Dr. Townsend Cobb currently works for Brooks Rehabilitation, and has served both as a team lead and center manager for this organization. Emily regularly speaks at the national and international level regarding universal design and accessibility for disabled healthcare providers, and will be presenting in Boston 2024 at the American Physical Therapy Association’s national conference. Recently, Dr. Townsend Cobb was awarded the Florida State University’s Reubin O’D. Askew Young Alumni Award; the highest honor bestowed upon young alumni. At home, Emily is a proud wife and mother to two vivacious little girls, Elora and Melody. Dr. Townsend credits her success and her continued work in breaking down barriers for the blind and visually impaired community to her family’s endless love and support, technological advances which have leveled the playing field for those with disabilities, and the support of the foundation in its work to restore sight to millions.
Brendon Cavainolo was diagnosed at three months old with X-Linked Juvenile Retinoschisis. He is considered "legally blind." He is a PhD student in the Computational Fluids and Aerodynamics Laboratory at the University of Central Florida (UCF). He studies Aerospace Engineering, and has a M.S. and B.S. in the same field. Recently, as a Graduate student, Brendon received the highest honor bestowed by UCF, The Order of the Pegasus. He is a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship recipient. Brendon has presented his research at many conferences, and won the 3AF Silver Medal at the 73rd International Astronautical Congress.
Meredyth Mason was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at 32 and became legally blind in 2015 at 42 years old. She recently became a guide dog user and loves her new found independence and companionship. Currently, Meredyth passionately commits her time in three areas: 1. working part time in marketing consulting, 2. disability advocacy, and 3. adaptive sports. She is self-employed and focuses her professional career supporting the military and national security. Her advocacy within the disability community Includes guest lecturing at universities as well as mentoring individuals in underrepresented populations. As a former able-bodied athlete, Meredyth has embraced her transition to an adaptive athlete and encourages those who are blind and visually impaired to pursue sports that are typically considered for sighted athletes such as shooting, tennis and golf.
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