In February, EyeCare4Kids’ beloved mascot SEEMORE and our dedicated team embarked on a journey to Monument Valley, where we joined forces with Rocky Mountain University to extend essential vision care services at the Special Olympics Healthy Athlete event.
Special Olympics Healthy Athletes® began offering free health screenings and education to Special Olympics athletes in 1997. Since then, more than 2 million athletes have received free health screenings, while training close to 300,000 health professionals and students to treat people with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics Programs has also expanded its reach of Healthy Athletes, offering more than 124,000 screenings since 2016 in new locations or in new disciplines, including eye care. According to the Special Olympics, for every 10 athletes on a Special Olympics team, two have never had an eye exam and four need prescription glasses.
The event was a heartening experience as nearly 30 athletes received much-needed vision care that empowered them to excel in their respective athletic competitions with clearer vision and renewed confidence. SEEMORE’s presence added enthusiasm, spreading smiles and encouragement throughout the event.
None of this would have been possible without the invaluable support and contributions from Onesight EssilorLuxottica Foundation, Zyloware Eyewear, and the Marc C. and Deborah H. Bingham Foundation.
Maggie Cline added, “Their commitment to the cause of accessible eye care exemplifies the spirit of compassion and community that drives positive change.”
