From Science to Sight: Foundation Fighting Blindness Accelerating Hope and Advancing Retinal Disease Breakthroughs with Dr. Amy Laster (Episode #150)

Dr. Lynn Hellerstein of Vision Beyond Sight sits down with Dr. Amy Laster, neuroscientist & Chief Scientific Officer at the Foundation Fighting Blindness that advances cures for retinal diseases, to talk about bridging cutting-edge science with human connection and leading the Foundation Fighting Blindness to accelerate research for rare eye diseases. As a neuroscientist-turned-nonprofit leader, she shares how translating complex science into human impact is advancing treatments – while keeping patients, families, and possibility at the heart of every breakthrough. Dr. Laster shares her journey from neuroscience into nonprofit leadership, revealing how her “superpower” of big-picture strategic thinking helps drive research forward more efficiently. Together, they unpack what retinal diseases are, the scope of their impact—from rare inherited conditions to age-related macular degeneration—and the innovative therapies offering new hope. From gene augmentation treatments like Luxturna to emerging clinical trials in retinal cell transplantation, this conversation bridges complex science with real-world impact. You’ll also hear powerful patient stories, including Rebecca Alexander’s experience with Usher syndrome and Lindsey Rambo’s groundbreaking role in early gene therapy trials. Beyond the lab, Dr. Laster highlights the importance of community, family support, and ensuring patients remain at the heart of every scientific advance. She also discusses the Foundation’s ambitious 5-year strategic plan and the evolving ways they measure success—including new technologies like virtual reality testing and using focal points of light. This episode is a compelling look at how innovation, empathy, and purpose are shaping the future of vision science—and why no one facing vision loss has to navigate it alone. Dr. Lynn Hellerstein, Developmental Optometrist, co-owner of Hellerstein & Brenner Vision Center, P.C., award-winning author and international speaker, holds powerful and inspiring conversations with her guests in the areas of health, wellness, education, sports and psychology. They share their inspirational stories of healing and transformation through their vision expansion. Vision Beyond Sight Podcast will help you see with clarity, gain courage and confidence. Welcome to Vision Beyond Sight! Also available on Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Audible and Stitcher.