On Sunday, April 12, the Foundation Fighting Blindness will host the 21st annual Orlando VisionWalk in support of research for blinding diseases. Located at Cypress Grove Park, the family-friendly walk aims to raise both awareness and critical funding to advance treatments and potential cures for a range of vision-related conditions.
Starting at 10 a.m., the event is a non-competitive 5K walk that will feature music, guest speakers, and opportunities to connect with others impacted by vision loss. Participants can register individually or as part of a team, with many walking in honor of loved ones or to support ongoing research efforts. Volunteers are also welcome to assist with event-day activities, including registration and guiding participants along the route.
Over the past two decades, VisionWalk events nationwide have played a large role in funding research efforts. According to organizers, more than 245,000 participants have helped raise over $74 million to support scientific advancements. As a result, more than 60 potential treatments are currently in clinical trials, so events like Visionwalk play a key role in funding ongoing research.
Founded in 1971, the Foundation Fighting Blindness has raised nearly $1 billion to fund research focused on preventing, treating, and curing retinal degenerative diseases. These include conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa, Usher syndrome, Stargardt disease, Leber congenital amaurosis, and age-related macular degeneration.
Registration is free for walkers of all ages, but attendees are encouraged to make a donation or fundraise in support of the cause. Participants can register ahead of time through the website or sign up on-site the morning of the event. Attendees can also share their experience online using the hashtag #VisionWalk.