12/25/2025
Dwight was a painter who relied on his vision to create- a prominent tool in the box of any artist. So, when his vision began to decline, he knew he needed help. On recommendation from the Wheaton Eye Clinic and having dealt with his father’s own macular degeneration, he knew to turn to Spectrios Institute for Low Vision.
Dwight first received a comprehensive low-vision rehabilitation exam from a specialty-trained doctor at Spectrios. From there, the entire Spectrios team quickly stepped in with the essential education and practical tools to support his daily life and independence. Dwight began to see a future with vision loss that didn’t mean giving up the activities he loves.
Chris, a member of our Access Technology Department who lives with vision challenges, worked closely with Dwight to explore magnifiers, computer accessibility features, and helpful apps. Together, they explored possibilities Dwight never knew existed—tools that now help him maintain his independence and confidence.
When Dwight arrived to his follow-up appointment, he carried something special under his arm. Deeply moved by the compassion and expertise he received at Spectrios, Dwight had created a new work of art to show his gratitude. Using the tools he found with the help of Chris and the Access Technology Department; he painted a brightly burning candle. The glowing flame representing the light of hope for people with low vision who come to Spectrios.
We see people who have received life changing diagnoses, many of whom have no idea what is possible with the right treatment plan. The Spectrios care team is filled with experts that help these individuals adapt and maintain independence, including staff members who live with low vision themselves.
Spectrios makes its home in the Deicke house, affectionately referred to as the “little house of hope.” When people with low vision find their way to our home it is often with anxiety, fear and low expectations. What they find when they get here is a dedicated team offering rehabilitative strategies, adaptive technologies and most importantly, hope.
We offer hope, backed by science, to every person who walks through our doors. We believe there are no lost causes—only potential in people with vision loss. Having served more than 25,000 individuals, we help people navigate vision loss while continuing to live with purpose. Dwight’s candle is a powerful reminder that hope continues to burn for individuals facing vision loss. With support, education, and adaptive tools, their light does not fade, it shines.
Help us keep the flame lit. https://secure.givelively.org/donate/spectrios-institute-for-low-vision
