LOVRNET changes name to: 
​MA Lions Low Vision Network
New Name, New Logo – Same Great Way to Serve Your Community! 

Service projects are the lifeblood of every one of the Lions clubs throughout the state. They are why each one of us became a Lion...to serve and to help make things better in our communities. That becomes even more important during the difficult times we are all living through due to the pandemic. During these times, what better way to serve than to help a person suffering from low vision to improve their outlook, personal independence, and overall quality of life. Most all of us know someone who is visually impaired due to Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma or complications resulting from Diabetes or Cataracts. Someone whose vision is permanently impaired that cannot be corrected by glasses, surgery or contact lenses. They have some usable vision but the vision they have lost has significantly impacted their quality of life. Worse yet, their local Optometrist or Ophthalmologist has told them there is nothing they can do for them. Not true!
Our recently rebranded Massachusetts Lions Low Vision Network (MLLVN) has established a substantial network of practitioners in our state who specialize in low vision assessment, treatment and in providing solutions and low vision tools that can significantly improve an individual’s quality of life. Volunteer Massachusetts Lions are teaming up with this network to truly make a difference.
The process is simple:

• Tell us if you have a family member, friend or associate who suffers from low vision and wants help.
• Your Lion volunteer District rep will help schedule a Low Vision Assessment with one of the Doctors in our program; the assessment should be covered by insurance (resources are available if there are insurance limitations).
• If transportation is an issue for the patient a Lion volunteer will provide or help secure a ride to and from the Doctor’s office.
• The Doctor conducting the assessment will recommend low vision tools (i.e. hand-help and desk top magnifiers, computer technology, telescopes, etc.) specific to their needs that can significantly improve the patient’s independence and quality of life.
• Low vision tools are typically not covered by insurance; if the patient is unable to cover the cost...contact your District’s Sight Conservation or Emergency Fund representative who will assess and prepare a case for that Committee that recommends that our Fund pays for it.
• The applicable tools will then be purchased through the MA Lions Low Vision Network and delivered to the patient.

We have many examples over the past few years where Lions, through this program have stepped forward and significantly improved the quality of life of someone in their community.
There are many ways that your club or you individually, can volunteer to participate in this program and make a difference in someone’s life. For more information about the program ask your District representative or, for specifics on how you can volunteer please go to www.lowvisionnetwork.com . What better way to demonstrate in our communities how Lions make a difference? 

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