SeeShore Fest Expands Support for Vision Rehab Patients at the Feinbloom Center

For over a decade, SeeShore Fest has helped bring hope to individuals with vision loss by supporting the Foundation Fighting Blindness, a key source of funding for sight-saving research and treatments. In recent years, the event has also directed proceeds to the William Feinbloom Vision Rehabilitation Center, housed at The Eye Institute of Drexel University, expanding care and resources for patients adapting to vision changes.

SeeShore has donated money toward our rehabilitation program to help patients who can’t pay for rehab services and devices,” said Dr. Erin Kenny, chief of the Feinbloom Center. “Providers from Feinbloom have attended the event to support it but really the work is all on her end.”

That “her” is Heather Napolitano, who along with her husband Dominic, founded SeeShore Fest in 2015, an event that includes four punch boards full of fun prizes, a silent auction, a raffle, and kids’ games. Businesses, athletes, and individuals donate prizes from gift certificates to merchandise, ranging from $25 to $5,000 in value.

In 2014, Heather was diagnosed with autoimmune retinopathy, a rare condition where the body’s immune system attacks the retina. Through SeeShore Fest, she’s been able to connect with people around the country who share similar experiences.

“Our biggest goal was to raise awareness. When I started losing my vision, we were petrified. To hear any diagnosis, whatever it is, is scary. As we learned more about blindness, we got less scared and more hopeful,” said Heather. “After we met Dr. Kenny, we wanted to raise money for the Feinbloom Center as well because we left here feeling even more hopeful. Everyone needs to know about the center.”

Heather added that the money raised from the event goes back to patients who cannot afford a low vision session. There is currently no cure for Heather’s condition, but she gets injections to help slow its progression. She also has several devices to aid her vision, including one called a Sightscope, which attaches to her sunglasses and magnifies details.

This year marked the 10th and final SeeShore Fest, culminating a decade of incredible generosity. This year’s event raised over $35,000, making the grand total for the decade $201,220 – all directly supporting the William Feinbloom Vision Rehabilitation Center and the Foundation Fighting Blindness.