Amid the cheers, high-fives, and medal moments at our 2025 Summer time Video games, we provided three Wholesome Athletes screenings — Particular Smiles®, Opening Eyes, and Wholesome Listening to!
This yr, 69 athletes took half in Opening Eyes screenings, the place they acquired complete imaginative and prescient exams and, when wanted, free prescription eyewear. For a lot of athletes, these screenings are their first alternative to be seen by a watch care skilled in a welcoming and accessible atmosphere. However these screenings are additionally very important to creating dental care extra inclusive. By offering professionals with hands-on expertise working with people with IDD, they’re able to take what they’ve discovered and apply it to their very own apply and assist their colleagues present accessible and inclusive care.
The success of Opening Eyes depends closely on the dedication of imaginative and prescient care professionals and college students who volunteer their time and abilities. We prolong our heartfelt because of the optometry professionals who supported this yr’s occasion, in addition to the unbelievable pupil volunteers from the New England School of Optometry. Your experience and kindness helped guarantee each athlete was seen, heard, and cared for with respect and enthusiasm.
A very shifting second got here throughout Opening Ceremonies, once we had been proud to current Dorothy Brodmann, our longtime Opening Eyes Medical Director, with the Native Golisano Well being Management Award. This award acknowledges well being leaders who go above and past in supporting inclusive well being for people with mental disabilities. Dorothy’s tireless advocacy and management have expanded entry to imaginative and prescient take care of numerous athletes throughout Vermont, and we had been honored to rejoice her impression in entrance of a cheering crowd.
Opening Eyes continues to be a significant a part of our mission to make sure that athletes not solely compete, however thrive—of their well being, confidence, and total well-being.
Thanks to everybody who helped us open eyes on the 2025 Summer time Video games!
