Sheila Tuhy, Program Chair and Dr. Dan Twelker of Volunteer Optometrists Serving Humanity (VOSH) Arizona with the NEW S.P.O.T.
Sheila Tuhy
Some of us remember when Spot was a dog in the life of Dick and Jane who helped us learn to read. The SPOT introduced to The Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke during the January 10 meeting is an acronym for a new vision screener demonstrated by Dr. Dan Twelker, the president of VOSH AZ (Volunteer Optometric Services for Humanity).
This technological advancement can read a fairly accurate refractive error and decrease the time needed to provide an accurate prescription for lenses needed for good vision. The SPOT has had a great impact on the time it takes to screen a classroom of children age three or more and direct them to the professional care required. It is read from a distance of one meter so the child is not frightened by a big black instrument in his face. It is more accurate than previous auto-refractors, sturdier, more user friendly and no larger than a good camera.
VOSH makes annual mission trips with lay and professional volunteers who provide vision care for indigent people around the world. The AZ team will be in Hermosillo, Senora, Mexico in February where they expect to serve as many as four thousand people including many children.
Dr. Twelker expressed his gratitude to The Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke, who, along with friends and family of former Rotarian, Dr. Ed Tuhy, purchased the new SPOT in his memory. “We will certainly serve more people more accurately with this instrument.” stated Dr. Twelker.
The Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke raises money to fund VOSH and other children’s charities primarily through the Fore For Kids Golf Tournament. This year the charity golf tournament will be held on Monday, April 15 at the Oro Valley Country Club. Please save the date! To become a sponsor or sign up to play, contact Bob Christadore at 415-264-0123 or [email protected].
The Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke is not only an award-winning organization devoted to making a difference locally and globally, but it is also a club that enjoys coming together for life-long learning. We meet weekly for lunch with friends and an excellent program of learning. If this sounds like something of interest to you, come visit our friendly club and learn more about Rotary.
The Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke is open to anyone who is retired, living or working in SaddleBrooke Ranch, SaddleBrooke and all surrounding communities. If this sounds like something of interest to you, join us for lunch on any Thursday at 11:30 a.m. at the SaddleBrooke One Clubhouse and meet some of our members. For more information, contact Wendy Guyton at 520-404-5712 or [email protected].