Can it be possible that in a civilized country like our own, one in which the most scientific methods are supposed to be in use, babies are allowed to lose their eyes when they might have been saved?

These humble yet probing words from 1908 formed Louisa Lee Schuyler's vision for children's vision – that no child should needlessly be robbed of a lifetime of sight. Thus began a century long movement that continues today under the auspices of Prevent Blindness America.

The early years of the organization, under Ms. Schuyler's guidance, led to legislation that all but eliminated one form of infant blindness – ophthalmia neonatorum – by mandating the use of silver nitrate drops in the eyes of all newborns. Over the many intervening years, programmatic efforts, scientific advancements and changes in public policy have led to many more great strides in children's vision and eye health. Yet today, in 2008, there remain far too many children who are blind, severely visually impaired, or simply have undetected refractive errors that hinder their ability to learn – and thus to grow into successful, achieving individuals.

Our Vision for Children's Vision shares a six-plank platform for children's vision and eye health. As Prevent Blindness America begins its second century of preventing blindness and saving sight we honor the importance of professional vision care and emphasize the critical public health role that vision screening plays in that continuum of care. We recognize the importance of ensuring all children are prepared to enter school unhampered by undetected vision problems. We address the importance of eye safety at home, school and play; and stress the significance of advances in pediatric vision research. Finally, we acknowledge that our vision cannot be fully achieved without public awareness and understanding of children's vision and eye health.

This is not work we can undertake on our own. We recognize the invaluable contributions of all the individuals and organizations who similarly dedicate their time and resources toward advancing children's vision and eye health. We share our vision as a national call to action to our partners and anyone committed to children's health to join our efforts, continue your own and come together as a community of care for our nation’s children.

Our vision for children's vision may be slightly more multi-faceted, yet at its core is the same urgency that drove Ms. Schulyer 100 years ago – that the gift of sight be afforded to all children. Their beautiful young eyes – be they brown, blue, green, grey, pink or hazel – are indeed their windows to the world. Let us come together to ensure them a magnificent view!

Hugh R. Parry
President & CEO
Prevent Blindness America