On April 18, 2024, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives approved a resolution sponsored by Representative John Schlegel to designate April as Retinal Blindness Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. The initiative aims to raise awareness about retinal blindness, a rare genetic disorder affecting approximately 100,000 Americans.
The legislation was introduced on behalf of Gracyn Smith, a 20-year-old student from Lebanon County attending Coastal Carolina University. Smith was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa at age five. This progressive form of retinal blindness currently has no cure and significantly impacts her vision.
Representative Schlegel shared his connection with Smith: “I have known Gracyn for a couple of years and had the privilege of speaking with her recently about retinal blindness and the vision challenges she faces daily.” He noted that despite being “a fiercely independent young woman,” Smith’s condition requires her to seek assistance when necessary.
Smith is actively involved with the Curing Retinal Blindness Foundation, dedicating her time to promoting awareness about Retinitis Pigmentosa. She will participate in an event this weekend in Lebanon supporting research efforts aimed at preventing and curing retinal blindness. During this event at the Lebanon Valley Expo Center on Saturday, April 20, Representative Schlegel will present a House citation to Smith.
