VisionGift

Everyone has a Fundamental Right to See.

The gift of sight is something that many people don‘t fully appreciate until they’re faced with the impacts of their own failing sight, or that of their loved ones. Fortunately, sightlessness due to cornea disease or dysfunction is something which can be repaired, and that’s where VisionGift comes in.

06/24/2026

When she joined VisionGift just over a year ago, Cerys Easton had recently completed her bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and was looking for a place where she could apply her passion for science in a meaningful way.

Before coming to VisionGift, she knew very little about eye banking. During the interview process, however, her curiosity stood out. She asked thoughtful questions, demonstrated a willingness to learn, and quickly became fascinated by the unique intersection of donation, transplantation, and research.

Today, her work focuses primarily on data analysis and scientific writing. She continues to explore emerging research questions, including how recovery times and post-mortem changes may influence tissue quality and downstream research outcomes.

Reflecting on her journey, she credits the organization with helping her find direction in her scientific career. “This job saved me, and my interest in science and research.”

Her story is a testament to the power of curiosity and our community. At VisionGift, research doesn’t just advance scientific knowledge; it helps cultivate the next generation of researchers who will drive future breakthroughs in vision science and transplantation. Learn more: https://www.visiongift.org/news/june-2026/

06/22/2026

VisionGift is celebrating 2025’s achievements through the beauty of data. Reflected in these numbers are the ways that eye tissue donated to the eye bank has impacted our community, and the world.

All work with tissue donations starts with a referral. Our Donor Referral Line operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and every day of the year, ready to spring into action when called upon. They work with the families of tissue donors to honor their wishes by collecting the approval and information necessary to recover the tissue. The journey of each tissue collected can go on one of several routes, and each recovered tissue can provide more than one application.

See the full impact at: https://www.visiongift.org/news/June-2026/ #2025:-A-Year

06/19/2026

Today is Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. It is also observed for celebrating African-American culture. The holiday is also called “Juneteenth Independence Day,” “Freedom Day” or “Emancipation Day.” Today, and also looking at June being Pride Month, is yet another opportunity for reflection, as well as how we can all show up and band together to work towards a more positive and equitable future for all.

Photo: Emancipation Day celebration, June 19, 1900 held in "East Woods" on East 24th Street in Austin. Credit: Austin History Center.

06/18/2026

"💚 The bigger picture is simple: one person can make an extraordinary impact."

06/17/2026

Have you noticed the colorful flags seen throughout Pride Month? In the LGBTQIA+ community, flags are powerful symbols of identity, visibility, and pride, with each one carrying its own history and meaning.

Pride Month is celebrated each June in recognition of the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in New York City, a pivotal moment in the Gay Liberation Movement. Today, Pride is a time to celebrate, remember, learn, and honor the impact LGBTQIA+ people have made locally, nationally, and around the world.

Did you also know that a person's sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression does NOT prevent that person from becoming a donor? Anyone who believes in donation is encouraged to register as a donor.

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06/15/2026

: People with most types of cancer can still donate their corneas. The corneas do not contain blood vessels, eliminating the risk of transmitting most types of cancer.

06/11/2026

We’re a little late in posting this video, but we didn’t want to miss the chance to give a belated shoutout to our former Technical Intern, Declan Chamberlain.Before heading off to college, Declan volunteered to be part of our “5 Questions” segment, and we’re grateful for the time, energy, and curiosity he brought to VisionGift. Thanks again, Declan - we’re excited to see all that’s ahead for you!

06/09/2026

Megan’s vision faded slowly at first, then in ways she could no longer ignore. Reading became harder. Driving at night no longer felt safe. One day, while standing in a parking lot with her children, they pointed excitedly to birds overhead- but when Megan looked up, she saw only blank sky.

After being diagnosed with , Megan learned that corneal transplant surgery could restore her sight. Nearly a year ago, she received two cornea transplants, and as her eyes healed, the world returned with a clarity and color she had not realized she had lost.

“The vibrancy of everything shocked me,” Megan said. “It felt like the contrast had been turned all the way up.”

But what means the most is being able to clearly see her children again - their faces, their freckles, and the everyday moments that matter most.

“They gave me the gift of being able to see my kids grow up,” Megan said. “Not only did they give this to me, but they gifted it to my whole family.”

For Megan, eye donation is not abstract. It lives in bedtime stories, football games, watercolor paintings, and every small moment she can now see again.

06/05/2026

It’s National Donut Day… or as we prefer, Donut Life Day! Sprinkle a little hope into the world by registering as an organ, eye, and tissue donor. One decision can make a sweet difference for so many lives. Donate Life America

05/26/2026

More Than A Box: VisionGift delivers tissue locally, across the United States, and to 56 countries worldwide. It's part of our continuing mission to restore sight and improve lives.

Address

2201 SE 11th Avenue
Portland, OR
97214

Telephone

+15033673098

Website

https://www.linkedin.com/company/visiongift

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