[NFBF-Melbourne] FW: June Newsletter

Sun Jun 21 21:09:41 UTC 2026

From: Brevard Association for the Advancement of the Blind <baab at baabhelpfortheblind.org> 
Sent: Friday, June 19, 2026 3:07 PM
To: dr.joycetaylor56 at gmail.com
Subject: June Newsletter

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from Brevard Association for the Advancement of the Blind

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Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)

Retinitis Pigmentosa, commonly referred to as RP, is a genetic condition. RP is a group of rare eye diseases that makes cells in the retina break down over time, causing vision loss. 

The most common early symptom of RP is loss of night vision (usually starting in childhood). There is currently no cure for RP but some people find that certain vitamins help to slow the progression of their symptoms from common forms of RP.

**Information about RP was obtained from the NIH website.**

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Jasmine lopez

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Jasmine Lopez found out about our Program for Independent Living (PIL) once she moved to Palm Bay in 2022. Her Division of Blind Services counselor was the one that pointed her in our direction and she was able to attend PIL a few months later. Jasmine absolutely loved her experience at PIL and how much confidence she gained from the classes. In 2025, Jasmine was able to attend PIL for a second time because we added new and improved classes. 

“I am so blessed and thankful to my Division of Blind Services counselor for telling me about this wonderful, beautiful, amazing program.”

-Jasmine Lopez

**The photo above shows Jasmine Lopez touching a replica animal skull at the Brevard Zoo**

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Our visit to the Brevard Zoo was spectacular! The day was full of education and hands-on activities for our clients and volunteers.

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We want sincerely thank our volunteers and the Brevard Zoo for making this unforgettable day happen!

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Meet Maira Rigogliosi 

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“I think BAAB is fantastic! I’ve been here for 10 years as a volunteer. I’ve seen people come in who couldn't do a thing because they’ve lost their eyesight and forget that they still have skills. Once you teach them how to use those skills that they already possess, in a different fashion, they're ready to join society and say ‘you know what, I can do this!’”

-Maria Rigogliosi

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Every Thursday

10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

You don’t have to love coffee to love Coffee Talk!

Come to connect, learn, and grow with us. We hope to see you there.

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We’re always looking for enthusiastic, compassionate sighted volunteers! Click the link below if you are interested in signing up!

 <https://us.list-manage.com/vttN4XEfLSl?e=4611e3b2e5&c2id=5e30b1ceb4ac676e22863990003e92e5> 

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Your generosity directly supports our growing programs, services, and advocacy that empower individuals who are blind or have low vision to maintain independent lives. 

Join us in making an impact, donate today.

 <https://us.list-manage.com/v5R499KLDfj?e=4611e3b2e5&c2id=5e30b1ceb4ac676e22863990003e92e5> 

Empowering independence, connection, and confidence for the low vision and no vision community in Brevard County.

 <mailto:baab at baabhelpfortheblind.org> 

 <https://us.list-manage.com/yuU8MEY3aYH?e=4611e3b2e5&c2id=5e30b1ceb4ac676e22863990003e92e5> 

Call us at  <tel:3217737222> 321-773-7222
674 South Patrick Drive, Satellite Beach, FL32937, United States

This email was sent to  <mailto:dr.joycetaylor56 at gmail.com> dr.joycetaylor56 at gmail.com 
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Brevard Association for the Advancement of the Blind · 674 South Patrick Dr · Satellite Beach, FL 32937-3873 · USA 

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