VEO Ophthalmics Teams Up with Aniridia Foundation International To Promote Rare Disease Day

VEO Ophthalmics announced that it is collaborating with Aniridia Foundation International (AFI)to raise awareness for aniridia and its associated treatment options. VEO is proud to support AFI in their mission to help advance research and provide educational programs to the Aniridia syndrome community by making a generous donation in honor of Rare Disease Day.

Aniridia is a serious ophthalmic rare disease in which a patient’s eyes are underdeveloped, from birth, due to a genetic mutation. Those affected develop childhood glaucoma, cataracts, corneal scarring, retinal, and other medical issues. Most noticeably, the fovea and iris do not develop properly, causing low vision, light sensitivities, and glare, along with cosmetic disadvantages. VEO Ophthalmics is the U.S. distributor for the CustomFlex ArtificialIris, a custom-made artificial iris implant that addresses both symptomatic and cosmetic aspects of iris defects.

Rare Disease Day, which takes place on the last day of February each year, was created to raise global awareness about rare diseases and their impact on patients' lives. The campaign targets the general public, as well as policy makers, public authorities, industry representatives, researchers, and health professionals.

“We are honored to support AFI, whose important work promotes scientific research and educational programs to help patients suffering from aniridia," Ron Gilliland, President and CEO of VEO Ophthalmics, said in a company news release. "Following the FDA approval of the CustomFlex ArtificialIrisin 2018, many patients suffering from symptomatic aniridia have benefited from this unique technology.”

“The important work we do at AFI is supported by our strategic partnerships with the medical community, members and corporate donors, and our partnership with VEO is a shining example of that,” said Jill Nerby, AFI Director and Founder. “A core part of our mission is to raise awareness of Aniridia syndrome and the associated conditions that make up this genetic syndrome. We are grateful for VEO Ophthalmics’ support and donation and look forward to continuing our work during Rare Disease Day – and beyond.”