Caitlyn Michiels, a young lady from Mastic diagnosed with a serious eye disease, received a boost from Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano in her mission to provide eyeglasses and other help for those in need and spread eye health awareness.
Diagnosed with Bilateral Anterior Uveitis, her efforts led to the approval of Caitlyn’s Law, a requirement that directs the county Department of Heath to distribute information on eye health. Suffolk also designated the month of August as Children's Eye Health and Safety Awareness month thanks to her advocacy.
Back in 2018, Caitlyn woke up with a burning sensation in her eyes and after consultation with her doctor, learned of the debilitating condition. Instead of letting her condition slow her down, the nine-year old went to work to make sure other children with vision challenges were taken care of. Now a teenager, her group, Caitlyn’s Vision, has brought in thousands of glasses in collection boxes seen all over the area which are refurbished and distributed to those in need.
“The community is proud of this brave, energetic young lady who dedicated herself in a highly successful effort to take care of others,” DeStefano said. “I urge everyone to turn in their used glasses or make a donation. The funds will go towards educational material, scholarships for students entering the Optometry field and helping pay down medical bills for patients who do not have insurance,” according to DeStefano. For more information, head to https://caitlynsvision.org/ or email caitlynsvision@gmail.com if you know of someone who needs assistance.
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