Caitlyn’s Vision Gala Celebrates Inclusion in Sayville

New York State Senator Dean Murray joined local officials and community leaders at Caitlyn’s Vision’s annual gala at Land’s End, an “Alice in Wonderland”-themed fundraiser celebrating advocates for people with visual impairments.

The event honored Suffolk County Legislator Dominick Thorne, Dr. Keith Breglio and William Floyd High School teacher Skylar McGarrity, along with 15-year-old Cailee Herrell, recipient of the organization’s Champion of Challenge Award.

Caitlyn’s Vision grew from the experience of Mastic resident Caitlyn Michiels, who was diagnosed with bilateral anterior uveitis in 2018 as a child. The inflammatory eye disease can threaten vision. Her diagnosis came after an initial case thought to be viral pink eye worsened, leading to specialist visits and an intensive treatment regimen.

The experience prompted Caitlyn to ask what happens to children whose families cannot afford treatment. That question became the foundation of a nonprofit focused on helping children with visual impairments, blindness and chronic illness while building more inclusive communities.

Her advocacy also reached government. In 2019, Suffolk County adopted “Caitlyn’s Law,” directing the county Health Department to distribute eye-health information and recognizing August as Children’s Eye Health and Safety Awareness Month. The New York State Assembly later adopted a statewide resolution recognizing the month.

Caitlyn’s Vision says it has now collected more than 16,000 pairs of eyeglasses for distribution to people in need, a sharp increase from the 7,000 pairs reported earlier in its history. The group has also provided school light covers and helped families facing vision-related costs.