Key Takeaways

  • United in Vision 2026 will unite the Foundation Fighting Blindness VISIONS conference with the Retina International World Congress for the first time
  • The 2-day event will feature 27 sessions covering cutting-edge science, assistive technology innovations, and practical resources
  • By combining scientific advancement with community engagement, the conference aims to accelerate progress toward treatments and cures while strengthening connections for individuals living with retinal diseases worldwide

The Foundation Fighting Blindness announced it will host its "United in Vision 2026" conference on June 12-13, 2026, at the Fort Worth Convention Center. The Foundation’s biennial VISIONS conference will, for the first time, merge with the Retina International World Congress as a co-hosted event. The joint gathering is expected to draw more than 1,000 attendees from around the world, including researchers, clinicians, industry leaders, and individuals living with blindness or low vision.

Organizers say the event will serve as one of the most comprehensive global forums dedicated to advancing scientific discovery while strengthening the connection between research and the communities it aims to serve.

“United in Vision represents a pivotal moment in advancing our mission,” said Jason Menzo, CEO of the Foundation Fighting Blindness and Board Director of Retina International. “By joining forces with the Retina International World Congress, we are strengthening global collaboration to accelerate research into treatments and cures and ensure our community stays connected to the latest progress.”

The 2-day conference will feature 27 sessions spanning scientific innovation, assistive technology, and practical resources for daily living. Attendees will gain insights into the latest advancements in vision research while also exploring tools and strategies to enhance independence and quality of life.

Among the highlights:

  • Keynote Address: Paralympic gold medalist and world-record-holder Anastasia Pagonis will share her personal journey, offering a powerful perspective on resilience and redefining perceptions of blindness.
  • Technology & Innovation: The opening session, “Innovating Access: AI That Moves and Grooves, With You,” will showcase emerging assistive technologies, including conversational AI tools and context-aware wearables designed to integrate seamlessly into the lives of blind and low-vision individuals.
  • Scientific Breakthroughs: Sessions will explore cutting-edge research in areas such as genome editing, optogenetics, whole eye transplantation, and retinal prosthetics. Disease-specific updates will cover conditions including retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, Usher syndrome, and age-related macular degeneration.
  • Adapting & Thriving: Practical sessions will address real-world challenges, including accessible employment pathways, mental health awareness, and innovative approaches to universal design and accessibility in public spaces.
  • Community Connection: Dedicated networking opportunities will allow individuals and families affected by similar diagnoses to connect, share experiences, and build support networks.

The conference will conclude with a joint session featuring Avril Daly, CEO of Retina International, alongside Jason Menzo and clinician Michel Michaelides, MD, highlighting the shared commitment to accelerating treatments and cures worldwide.

Registration for United in Vision 2026 is now open. For the full schedule, sponsorship opportunities, and additional details, visit www.UnitedInVision.org.