VIEW POINT

Featured Speakers:

Dr. David M. Gamm is Director of the McPherson Eye Research Institute and Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He founded Opsis Therapeutics, where he serves as Chief Scientific Officer. His research uses stem cell technology to model retinal diseases and develop cell replacement therapies.

Dr. Shaheer Aboobaker is a fellowship-trained retina specialist and Managing Partner at the Toronto Retina Institute. He is actively involved in clinical research, serving as an investigator in over 20 trials focused on innovative treatments. He also co-founded the Young Professionals Bursary to support disadvantaged students in South Africa.

Dr. Robert Koenekoop is a clinician-scientist at McGill and the Montreal Children’s Hospital, specializing in pediatric and inherited retinal diseases. He has discovered over 15 genes linked to childhood blindness and published 150+ peer-reviewed papers through international collaborations. In his clinics, he provides comprehensive care including genetic testing, counseling, and leads clinical trials for cutting-edge treatments targeting retinal degenerations.

Are you or a loved one navigating life with a Usher Syndrome or Bardet-Biedel Syndrome (BBS)? Join us for an informative webinar offering the latest insights into research, treatments, and lived experiences related to these conditions.

Featured Speakers:

Dr. Elise Héon is Director of the Ocular Genetics Program at SickKids and a Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Toronto, specializing in inherited retinal diseases. Her research focuses on uncovering genetic causes of these conditions and developing targeted treatments to improve patient outcomes.

Dr. Vince Tropepe is a Professor at the University of Toronto and Vice-Dean of Research in the Faculty of Arts & Science, specializing in neurogenesis in the brain and retina. His research explores how nerve cells develop and regenerate, with applications in stem cell science, vision research, and biosafety policy.

A lived experience panel featuring individuals affected by syndromic conditions, who will share their personal stories, insights, and advice on navigating life with these multifaceted diagnoses.

This is a unique opportunity to connect with experts, gain essential information, and find support within a community that truly understands. An optional social session will follow the webinar from 7:45 pm – 8:15 pm ET, offering a chance to connect informally with others. Details on how to join will be shared during the event.

Register today to be part of this impactful discussion. For questions or assistance with registration, please get in touch with education@fightingblindness.ca.

Dr. Yan Huang earned her Doctor of Optometry from the New England College of Optometry and studied Medical Sciences at Western University. She joined a VOSH mission trip to the Dominican Republic, providing eye care to underserved communities. Dr. Huang now practices in Oakville, Ontario, where she’s dedicated to patient education and staying current with advancements in eye health.