Optelec charity of the year 2025 – Esme’s Umbrella

At Optelec UK, we are delighted to announce our continued partnership with Esme’s Umbrella in 2025. This collaboration is part of our unwavering commitment to supporting those living with vision loss and the challenges it can bring. Together, we aim to raise awareness and provide much-needed support for people affected by Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS).

What is Esme’s Umbrella?

Esme’s Umbrella is a vital charity dedicated to supporting individuals living with Charles Bonnet Syndrome. Founded by Judith Potts in memory of her late mother, Esme, the organization serves as a beacon of hope and understanding for those experiencing the often-overlooked effects of CBS. Esme’s Umbrella offers resources, guidance, and advocacy to ensure those affected by the condition are not left feeling isolated or misunderstood.

Understanding Charles Bonnet Syndrome

Charles Bonnet Syndrome is a condition that affects individuals with significant vision loss, causing them to experience vivid, and often detailed, visual hallucinations. These hallucinations can range from simple patterns to complex images of people, animals, or scenes. While CBS is not a mental health condition, it can be distressing and confusing for those who experience it, particularly if they are unaware of its connection to vision loss.

The syndrome is named after Charles Bonnet, an 18th-century Swiss philosopher and naturalist who first described the condition after observing it in his visually impaired grandfather. Today, CBS is recognized as a widespread issue among people with deteriorating eyesight, yet it remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood.

The Importance of Awareness and Support

For those living with CBS, understanding the condition is crucial. Many people initially fear their hallucinations may indicate a mental health issue, which can lead to unnecessary anxiety or shame. Organizations like Esme’s Umbrella play a pivotal role in changing this narrative. By providing clear information, emotional support, and advocacy, the charity helps individuals and their families navigate the challenges posed by CBS with confidence and dignity.

Our Continued Commitment

At Optelec UK, our mission aligns closely with that of Esme’s Umbrella. As a leading provider of innovative low-vision solutions, we strive to empower individuals to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life. Partnering with Esme’s Umbrella allows us to amplify this mission by addressing the specific needs of those with CBS.

In 2025, we will continue to:

• Raise Awareness: Through joint campaigns, events, and resources, we aim to educate the public and healthcare professionals about CBS and its impact.
• Provide Solutions: Our range of assistive technologies can help reduce the isolation that often accompanies vision loss and its associated conditions.
• Support Advocacy Efforts: We stand with Esme’s Umbrella in their fight to ensure CBS receives the recognition it deserves within the healthcare system.

Join Us in Making a Difference

We invite our community to join us in supporting Esme’s Umbrella. Whether by spreading the word about CBS, donating to the charity, or participating in upcoming awareness events, every action helps shine a light on this important cause.

Together, we can ensure that no one facing Charles Bonnet Syndrome feels alone in their journey. For more information about Esme’s Umbrella and our ongoing collaboration, visit Esme’s Umbrella.

Let’s make 2025 a year of hope, understanding, and progress for those affected by Charles Bonnet Syndrome.

James Fossey – Sales and Marketing Manager