Monday, October 28, 2019     

5:30pm - 8:30pm

“A few hours without sight. A lifetime of insight.”

UAB Connections Support Group

A vision impairment can negatively impact one’s quality of life and present challenges to participating in everyday activities as well as relationships.  Unlike many other leading academic Departments of Ophthalmology in the country or community eye care clinics, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) provides a unique and cutting-edge service called UAB Connections and is directed by Dr. Laura Dreer and facilitated by Miss Molly Cox. UAB Connections is an expert facilitated psychoeducational support group that helps both patients and their families adjust to the ongoing challenges of living with an eye disease or eye injury. This group, along with ongoing medical and surgical treatments for vision, helps to provide comprehensive care by treating “the whole person”. Patients and their families learn important tools to improve their quality of life, everyday functioning, health knowledge and self-care, as well as maintain independence, all within the context of peer support. This innovative service also incorporates community-based social, recreational, educational, and lifestyle activities that foster social interaction, implementation of strategies from the support group, community participation, and healthy behaviors. Additionally, UAB Connections provides interactive community-based events to educate and build partnerships with the vision community and public.

Dinner in the Dark Event

As part of the UAB Connections outreach efforts, we are excited to invite you to a unique and special dining experience at Rojo restaurant located in Birmingham, Alabama that promotes sensitivity and understanding toward individuals with impaired vision. In a controlled setting using simulation googles, eye care providers and residents, along with friends and families of our support group, will experience a glimpse of what it is like to live with a vision impairment. Join us for a special evening of good food, fun, and insight that will last a lifetime.

Click here for more detailed information as to what you may expect during Dinner in the Dark. 

Tickets

To attend this special Dinner in the Dark event, tickets must be purchased in advance by clicking here.
Tickets include chips and salsa, full dinner, dessert, non-alcoholic beverages, and one sleep mask to take home. With the purchase of your ticket(s), you will also be helping to support UAB Connections related activities. Your interest and support of this event will help many families living with the daily challenges of limited vision.

Questions/Contact

For any questions, please contact the UAB Connections Lead Facilitator Molly Cox at mollycox@uabmc.edu or call (205) 488-0778.

Location

Rojo
2921 Highland Avenue South
Birmingham, Alabama 35205
Directions to Rojo

How Can I Help Support UAB Connections and/or Serve as a Sponsor for the Event?

Services such as UAB Connections are vital to providing comprehensive eye care for persons living with vision impairments and their families. These services are only made possible from generous donations. To support the continued growth, success, and outreach of UAB Connections activities such as Dinner and the Dark or serve as a sponsor, you may give here. Please be sure to enter the amount under “Selected Designations: Dr. Dreer’s Connections Support Group Fund.”

Thank you in advance for your generous contribution!