EyeCare4Kids recently had the honor of participating in a Special Olympics Healthy Athletes event in St. George. We teamed up with Rocky Mountain University to provide comprehensive eye exams and prescription eyeglasses to athletes who attended the event. The initiative aimed to address the often-overlooked aspect of visual health in the lives of individuals with special needs, ensuring they have the necessary support to excel in their chosen sports and activities.
A highlight of the event was the generous contribution from Zyloware Eyewear, which provided Shaq Eye Gear sport goggles. These specialized goggles offer protection and enhanced visual clarity, enabling athletes to perform at their best with confidence and safety.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to participate in the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes event and to make a positive impact on the lives of these remarkable athletes,” said Maggie Cline, executive director of EyeCare4Kids Utah. “Vision plays a crucial role in athletic performance, and by ensuring that all athletes have access to quality eye care, we are helping them reach their full potential.”
The event facilitated vision screenings and eyewear distribution and also fostered a sense of community and support among participants. Athletes interacted with healthcare professionals in a welcoming and fun environment, promoting awareness and understanding of the importance of vision health. Since 1997, Special Olympics Healthy Athletes has delivered over 2 million free health screenings and trained close to 300,000 health professionals and students to treat people with intellectual disabilities. The St. George event served as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of collaboration and compassion.
