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ASB Visions Newsletter |
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February 2003:
Computer center providing link to newest technology Established in 1995, Gateway gives students the skills and confidence they need to compete and to achieve in a technology driven world. With the help of programs that enlarge or speak text on the computer screen, blind and visually impaired people can use virtually any computer program on the market. David Goldfield, Gateway Computer Technology Center instructor, said it is important for blind and visually impaired people to have computer skills if they want to compete in the job market. "Computers are just as important to blind and visually impaired people as they are to sighted people," he said. Gateway student Sam Saunders, visually impaired from a detached retina suffered during his days as a boxer, is currently learning how to use Microsoft Word and Excel with specially adapted software (Zoomtext). Zoomtext magnifies everything on the screen, making it legible for a visually impaired person. As the owner of an entertainment company, it was essential for Saunders to learn technology that would enable him to use a computer despite his low vision. "Gateway has assisted me in getting back on my feet and becoming independent again," Saunders said. Students can choose from six, five-week structured courses or request customized training. Saunders said Gateway has given him an opportunity he never thought he would have. For information call 215-627-0600, ext. 3250.
Save the Date! The Second Annual Swarthmore Fun Fair is quickly approaching. Stop by ASB's booth for fun games and great prizes. The Fun Fair, sponsored by the Swarthmore Rotary Club, is an all non-profit carnival where non-profits create fun events that earn them money and where members of the charity's staff dress up in costumes of their own making. For more information call 215-627-0600, ext. 3242.
Identifying the symptoms of an eye emergency Pain - Pain is never normal, and should be followed up that day or by the next morning, at least. Pain that is scratchy or causes tearing usually points to a problem in the cornea or conjunctiva. Infection and traumatic injuries are the most important emergencies in this category. Pain that is deep, aching, or boring in character often points to a problem in a different part of the eye. Inflammation inside the eye can often produce an aching pain, which is a primary symptom. Loss of Vision - Whether visual acuity or loss of peripheral vision, loss of vision is never normal, especially if it is sudden. Gradual blurring of vision over months can point to cataract development or needing a change in eyeglasses power, but if a change is sudden, over seconds, minutes or hours, it should be regarded as an emergency. Most minor causes of eye problems like itching from allergies or dry eye, don't affect vision. If visual acuity or peripheral vision is affected, it should be investigated promptly. Redness - Usually, a red eye is not an emergency. If it is accompanied by pain, or a pus-like discharge, or a decrease in vision, then it is an emergency and should be seen by a doctor as soon as possible. There are some situations that should prompt emergency examination, even in the absence of the symptoms above. For example, chemical injuries and sharp or blunt trauma to an eye are considered emergencies and the doctor should be called or the emergency room consulted. This information was taken from the article "What is an Eye Emergency" written by Erich Horn, M.D., Associated Program Director at CPMC Residency Clinic and reprinted with the permission of the Lions Eye Foundation of California-Nevada, Inc.
ASB volunteer receives honor from Philadelphia Eagles Non-profit organizations from around the Delaware Valley nominated volunteers for this prestigious honor. More than one hundred entries were received. Ten finalists were selected, each receiving $1,000 for their organization. "Volunteers are the backbone of ASB," said Patricia C. Johnson, CEO and President of Associated Services for the Blind. "Without the dedication of volunteers like Barbara, ASB would never be able to provide the highest quality of services to blind and visually impaired individuals." This award honors individuals who exemplify leadership, dedication, and a commitment to improving the communities in which they live through volunteerism. "At 95 years old, Barbara's lifelong commitment to helping others has made her a role model for all volunteers," Johnson said.
Make a Gift on our secure website It's as easy as the click of a mouse. And it's safe: your information is kept private with ASB's enhanced secured server. That means only ASB will have access to personal and financial information submitted online. Of course, ASB's traditional ways of making a gift are still available. For more information call 215-627-0600, ext. 3278. Visit www.asb.org today!
ASB welcomes new board chairman Dr. Fitzgerald has been affiliated with ASB's Board of Directors since 1974. He has served as a member since 1997. In his new position, he hopes to expand ASB's many programs and services, providing even more extensive opportunities for blind and visually impaired individuals throughout the Delaware Valley. In addition to having his own Psychiatry Practice, Dr. Fitzgerald is on the faculty at Thomas Jefferson University and is a member of the Medical Staff at Crozer-Chester Medical Center. He is also active with the Institute of Outdoor Awareness. Dr. Fitzgerald is published in several medical journals and is a Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. Mr. Gable will continue to stay active with ASB, serving on its Advisory Board.
Program helping Columbian native adjust to life in U.S. Wanting to be closer to her parents, Sandra moved to the United States six years ago from Columbia. Although she had taken a few English classes in Columbia, she needed more training. Visually impaired since birth, she also needed to adjust to her new surroundings. At the suggestion of a family friend, Sandra contacted ASB and discovered that its Latino Outreach Program could help her with her English as well as her adjustment to vision loss. ASB's Latino Outreach Program includes English as a Second Language Classes, Latino Life Skills Training and Latino Support Groups. Being involved with Latino Outreach has not only helped build Sandra's confidence, it has brought her together with people in similar situations. Sandra takes English as a Second Language Classes two days a week. As a result, her English skills continue to improve and she has made several new friends. Sandra is also learning braille in ASB's Latino Life Skills class, where she has emerged as a leader, often helping other students with their braille. In addition to learning English and braille, Sandra is learning to assert her independence. Proudly she says she is now able to use taxis and public transportation. Sandra Rodriguez has let neither vision loss nor language barriers defeat her. With help of family, friends and ASB, she has triumphed and is truly on the road to success.
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| Copyright 1995-2003. All rights reserved. Associated Services for the Blind, 919 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Phone: (215) 627-0600 | Fax: (215) 922-0692 |
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