ST. LOUIS SOCIETY FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED AWARDS THE COMMUNITY LIGHT AWARD TO PREMIERE EYE ASSOCIATES OF JEFFERSON COUNTY

The award will be presented at the 2024 Visionary Gala on Saturday, April 6. 

St. Louis Society for the Blind and Visually Impaired is honored to present the Community Light Award to Premiere Eye Associates of Festus, MO. Society has enjoyed a long friendship with Premiere Eye for many years and the eye center has consistently referred patients to the non-profit. Their doctors have served on the Society’s Board of Directors and currently, Dr. Humeyra Karacal serves on the Board.

Festus Office

Dr. Randall E. Nacke, Ophthalmologist, Dr. Humeyra Karacal, Ophthalmologist, Dr. Bradford B. Kesler, Optometrist

Premiere Eye Associates is dedicated to providing personalized attention using only the latest, most innovative techniques in eye care. They offer a variety of refractive surgery and general ophthalmology treatments (glasses, contact lenses, cataract surgery) to help restore and maintain optimal vision health. Their two surgeons specialize in cataract surgery with lens implantation, premium lens implantation, non-surgical management of retinal diseases including macular degeneration, glaucoma (trabeculoplasty and surgical glaucoma management), diabetic eye care, and diagnosis and management of ocular inflammation (uveitis), among other specialties.

In September 2023, Society began a partnership with Premiere Eye allowing one of Society’s occupational therapy assistants to use their space free of charge to meet with clients on the first and third Wednesday of each month. The office staff schedules the clients, and the OTA brings in devices to show them, such as magnifiers, and other aids that the patient may not be aware of that can help in the activities of daily living. This collaboration has opened the door for the visually impaired in Jefferson County to know about Society’s valuable resources.

“We are thrilled to partner with Premiere Eye to further our mission of improving healthcare accessibility and outcomes,” said Laura Park-Leach, President & CEO of Society. “Together, we will work tirelessly to ensure individuals receive the comprehensive care they deserve, empowering them to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. This collaboration underscores Society and Premiere Eye’s shared dedication to innovation, excellence, and patient-centered care. By leveraging our respective strengths, we are confident in our ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”

The Community Light Award is presented to an individual or group whose accomplishments have an immeasurable impact on the visually impaired and blind communities.

The Visionary Gala is the Society’s premier fundraising event and will once again be emceed by Jasmine Huda of Fox Channel 2 News and is chaired by Bing Dempewolf, Maria Tabb, and Kenneth Tabb. The James Brooks Award will also be presented to Dr. Stephen Waltman (posthumously) and to his wife Prof. Gillian Roper-Hall. The Gala will take place on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at the Algonquin Golf Club on Berry Road. Tickets can be purchased at: https://one.bidpal.net/2024visionarygala or by calling 314-968-9000. Sponsorships are still available! For information, contact Megan Connelly, Director of Development at development@slsbvi.org or call 314-968-9000.

About St. Louis Society for the Blind and Visually Impaired 

Since 1911, Society has been enhancing independence, empowering individuals, and enriching the lives of people who are blind or visually impaired. Caring, qualified staff provide low vision medical exams and therapy, daily living adaptations, assistive technology, travel training, social work, and support services to more than 1,100 people every year.  

For further information on St. Louis Society for the Blind and Visually Impaired, please visit their website at https://www.slsbvi.org. 

They are also on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.