Choroideremia Research Foundation

Congratulations to Tim Galvin, a member of the CHM community, on being named a winner of the 2025/2026 CARTA Image Competition! 🌌

Tim’s winning image, Deep Radio-Continuum Insights Towards the Galactic Plane With ASKAP, highlights both the beauty of astronomy and the power of scientific discovery through CARTA.

We’re proud to celebrate members of the CHM community making an impact across the scientific world.

Read more from IDiA: https://idia.ac.za/2026/05/22/announcing-the-winners-of-the-2025-2026-carta-image-competition/

May is Inherited Retinal Disease (IRD) & Genetic Testing Awareness Month 🧬

The Choroideremia Research Foundation (CRF) is proud to join Prevent Blindness in recognizing the third annual IRD Awareness Month.

This month highlights inherited retinal diseases such as Choroideremia, Retinitis Pigmentosa, Stargardt Disease, and others—while emphasizing the critical role of genetic testing in achieving an accurate diagnosis.

Choroideremia often appears similar to Retinitis Pigmentosa in its early stages, which can lead to misdiagnosis. A genetic test is essential to confirm the diagnosis and ensure individuals receive the most accurate information about their condition, especially as research advances and emerging therapies are developed to target specific gene mutations.

Together, we’re raising awareness of the importance of genetic testing in eye health, diagnosis, and the future of vision research.

Learn more about inherited retinal diseases and genetic testing from Prevent Blindness:
https://preventblindness.org/inherited-retinal-diseases/ #1587478551805-8fd98b0c-7329

📣 Mark your calendars!

The 2027 CRF International Conference will be held June 23–26, 2027, at the Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando – Disney Springs Area in Orlando, FL.

Join the CHM community for several days of connection, education, research updates, and family-friendly fun. With resort-style amenities, nearby Disney Springs, and convenient park access, it’s a great setting for learning and time together.

More details, registration, and schedule info coming soon—stay tuned!

May is Mental Health Awareness Month 🩵

A reminder that emotional well-being is just as important as physical health. Living with CHM-related vision loss can bring real challenges, and feelings like anxiety, sadness, or uncertainty are valid.

The Foundation Fighting Blindness is hosting an upcoming webinar focused on mental health and living with low vision:

Quarterly Vision Webinar: Mental Health — Living and Thriving
📅 Saturday, May 23, 2026
🕛 12:00 p.m. ET | Zoom

This session will explore the emotional impact of vision loss and share strategies for resilience, holistic well-being, and building community support.

Featuring licensed therapist Matthew Reeves, LPC, CRC, NCC, along with a speaker from Hadley, a nonprofit that provides tools, resources, and peer connections for people living with vision loss.

Register to join: https://www.fightingblindness.org/events/quarterly-vision-webinar-mental-health-living-and-thriving-6840