Bike For Sight brings our community together to support those moving to a life beyond sight and the many others who still have time to preserve their sight. This charitable cycling event will raise funds, generate awareness, and motivate action around equity and inclusion, treatment and prevention, and hope for cures. Bike For Sight invites participation from those living with and impacted by blindness and visual impairments and the conditions that cause them, as well as allies, advocates, corporate, and community partners.
About vision loss in Southeast Michigan
- Vision loss causes a substantial social and economic toll for millions of people including significant suffering, disability, loss of productivity, and diminished quality of life. The major causes of vision loss are cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.
- According to the CDC, among Michigan residents, people with severe vision impairment are more likely to have diabetes, arthritis and mobility issues. Additionally, severe vision impairment is higher in those reporting poor health versus good health and less than a high school education versus individuals with a high school education or above.
- In Michigan, vision loss costs over $11,430 per person each year in terms of medical care, supportive services, and productivity.
- Scientific evidence shows that early detection and treatment can prevent many cases of blindness and vision impairment.
- Addressing social determinants such as income, education, food insecurity, and access to care can help us reach vision health equity.
About the Greater Detroit Agency for the Blind and Visually Impaired
GDABVI takes a whole-person approach to sight loss by meeting people where they are in their vision journey. We provide daily living skills, technology training, orientation and mobility, support groups, case management for basic needs, information and resources, and opportunities to socialize for blind and visually impaired individuals. Our programs foster independence, safety, and overall well-being across the lifespan. Our service area covers Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Livingston, Monroe, Washtenaw, and St. Clair counties.
