Shiley initiated and coordinated the
largest gathering in history of persons with Macular Degeneration
and their family and friends. An estimated 2,200 individuals
from all parts of San Diego County converged on the historic
Organ Pavilion in scenic Balboa Park, Saturday, October 2, 1999.
This date was selected to coincide with the World Health Organization's
Day of Global Movement for Active Aging, celebrated internationally.
Never has Macular Degeneration (ARMD),
a condition that robs people of their central vision, enjoyed
such a venue. Co-sponsored by the County of San Diego, the event
was made possible through the generosity of the Shiley Awards
in the Health, Education, and the Arts, Allergan, Agouron Pharmaceuticals,
Alcon, and an anonymous donor.
The goals were public awareness, empowering
the attendants by demonstrating how many share their disease,
and educating public officials about the needs of this population.
Though an estimated 14 million seniors in the U.S. live with
this devastating disease, the American Disability Act essentially
excludes Macular Degeneration as a disabilityabout ARMD is the
fact that the afflicted generally do not talk about it - that
is why we traditionally call it "the quiet disease."
The San Diego Youth Swing Band played
as guests arrived in 40 vans and hundreds of private cars. Each
attendee received a hat to commemorate the day and ladies were
presented a rose! Outstanding volunteers representing Delta
Gamma (UCSD), UCSD undergraduates, Delta Gamma (SDSU), Girl
Scouts, AARP and the University of San Diego High School Ambassadors
assisted attendees and were instrumental in managing logistics
for the morning.
KOGO's Roger Hedgecock served as Master
of Ceremonies ably introducing each speaker, including Congressman
Brian Bilbray, Supervisor Ron Roberts (an early supporter of
our efforts), Dr. Stuart Brown, and Barbara Brody. Representative
Bilbray pledged he would work toward securing funding for a
cure and help the individuals living with ARMD in San Diego
County.
