In this engaging episode of White Canes Connect, listeners are treated to a dynamic presentation by Andy Burstein, CEO of Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind, during the 2024 NFB of Pennsylvania State Convention in Erie. Andy offers a captivating overview of his company’s innovative services, which cater specifically to individuals with disabilities.

Andy shares exciting updates about Accessible Pharmacy’s nationwide expansion and groundbreaking initiatives. From low-tech solutions like talking blood pressure cuffs and medication labels to high-tech innovations such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), the company is redefining accessible healthcare. Andy highlights how CGMs, now widely adopted, revolutionize diabetes management by enabling real-time monitoring and family sharing features.

The conversation also delves into cutting-edge developments like home diagnostic tools, Be My Eyes integration, and artificial intelligence, underscoring a future where healthcare is more inclusive and personalized. Andy emphasizes the importance of the Medical Device Non-Visual Accessibility Act, championed by the NFB, which mandates accessible apps for medical devices.

This episode is a testament to the transformative power of technology in healthcare and Accessible Pharmacy’s commitment to enhancing independence and well-being for the blind community. Learn more at https://www.AccessiblePharmacy.com.

Mark your calendars for the 2025 NFB of Pennsylvania State Convention in Harrisburg, November 13–16, and stay connected with White Canes Connect for updates and opportunities.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/121

An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

Donate to the NFB of PA

If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

We Want to Hear Your Story

Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

Follow White Canes Connect

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In Episode 120 of White Canes Connect, we revisit the 2024 NFB of PA State Convention in Erie, featuring an insightful presentation by Dawn Sokol, Director of the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services (BBVS). Dawn offers a comprehensive update on the agency’s priorities, including hiring, outreach, and fiscal management, alongside an overview of key programs and initiatives.

Dawn highlights BBVS's adoption of "rapid engagement" to expedite service delivery and address longstanding system delays. She also outlines the challenges posed by flat federal funding, emphasizing its impact on pre-employment transition services, the Older Blind Program, and agency operations. Despite these financial constraints, BBVS remains committed to outreach and staff retention to ensure high-quality service delivery.

Dawn provides updates on innovative programs such as bioptic driving guidance, revamped low-vision policies, and the successful My Work youth employment initiative. She also underscores BBVS’s dedication to assistive technology enhancements and collaboration with partners.

A passionate advocate for equitable employment and accessible services, Dawn encourages community action, including outreach to legislators to increase program funding. The episode captures BBVS's resilience and ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for Pennsylvania’s blind and visually impaired residents.

Mark your calendars for the 2025 NFB of Pennsylvania State Convention in Harrisburg, November 13–16, and stay connected with White Canes Connect for updates and opportunities.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/120

An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

Donate to the NFB of PA

If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

We Want to Hear Your Story

Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast

In episode 119 of White Canes Connect, host David Goldstein reflects on the highlights of the 2024 National Federation of the Blind (NFB) of Pennsylvania State Convention in Erie. The episode centers on President Lynn Heitz's powerful presidential report, where she draws inspiration from Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar to parallel the journey of blindness with the caterpillar's transformation into a butterfly. President Heitz poignantly compares the challenges, growth, and triumphs faced by individuals navigating blindness to the stages of the caterpillar’s metamorphosis.

The report celebrates the progress made by NFB members, from those new to vision loss seeking resources and skills to those fully embracing independence, advocating for change, and mentoring others. She emphasizes the importance of outreach, education, and mentorship in breaking societal stigmas about blindness and fostering self-esteem and empowerment.

The episode also highlights the NFB's ongoing initiatives, including Braille instruction, partnerships with Pennsylvania agencies, and advocacy for blind children and adults. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their personal journeys, participate in outreach, and contribute to building a stronger blind community.

Mark your calendars for the 2025 NFB of Pennsylvania State Convention in Harrisburg, November 13–16, and stay connected with White Canes Connect for updates and opportunities.

Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/119

An Easy Way to Help the NFB of PA

Support the NFB of PA with every purchase at White Cane Coffee Company by going to https://www.whitecanecoffee.com/ref/nfbp. When you use that link to purchase from White Cane Coffee, the NFB of PA earns a 10% commission! Share the link with your family and friends! Listen to Erin and Bob Willman from White Cane Coffee on episode 072 of White Canes Connect.

Donate to the NFB of PA

If you want to donate to the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania, visit https://www.NFBofPA.org/give/.

We Want to Hear Your Story

Reach out with questions and comments, or share ideas! We want to hear from you. Call us at (267) 338-4495 or at whitecanesconnect@gmail.com.

Follow White Canes Connect

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-canes-connect/id1592248709

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1YDQSJqpoteGb1UMPwRSuI

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pablindpodcast