Lion Bob Owen screens a student at Wesleyan Preschool / Photo by Lion Tom McClure

In October, members of the Salem Host Lions Club provided vision screening for approximately 70 students at the Wesleyan Preschool in Salem and assisted with the vision screening of elementary school students at South Salem Elementary School. Students at the Wesleyan Preschool, located at the First United Methodist Church in Salem, were screened on Oct. 11-12.

The Salem Host Lions used a Spot vision screening unit, manufactured by Pediavision, available through the Lions District 24 E, to screen students. The Spot Vision unit can be used to screen any age group, even pre-verbal children since it doesn’t require any patient participation. The Spot vision unit takes an instant photograph of the child’s eyes to determine the presence of eye disorders or those in need of vision correction. This unit can identify children at risk for amblyopia (Lazy Eye) which is important for early diagnosis. The information obtained from this vision screening is considered a preliminary procedure and does not replace a comprehensive eye exam performed by an eye care professional.

The Salem Host Lions Club hopes to expand their vision screening to other preschools, daycares and elementary schools in Salem. If you are interested in the club conducting a screening at your school please contact Tom Sixbey at sixbeytg@verizon.net for more information.

If you are interested in joining the Salem Host Lions, we are looking for new, dedicated club members who want to make a difference in the community.  If you are interested in more information on membership please contact Bill Powell, membership chairman at wpowell102@aol.com.

Submitted by Jenny Poland.