As Conexus continues its growth, reaching tens of thousands of children each year through mass screenings, the organization is convening a panel of experts to formally review and approve Conexus programs as best practice.  To provide a broad , well rounded perspective of the program, the panel includes representation from the both the medical and education community and consists of two pediatric ophthalmologists, two optometrists, a representative from public health, a representative from public education, and a representative from early childhood education.  The committee will be staffed by Conexus.

Panel Members:

• Dr. Edwin Wortham, M.D., Pediatric Ophthalmologist, Conexus Board member
• Dr. Evan Silverstein, M.D., Pediatric Ophthalmologist, VCU
• Dr. Charles “Bo” Pegram, Jr., OD, Conexus Board Chairman
• The Honorable Roxann Robinson, OD, member VA House of Delegates
• Dr. Margaret Meara, EdD., former Superintendent Powhatan County Schools, Conexus Board member
• Ms. Teresa Isom Teresa Isom, RN, BSN, Public Health Nurse Supervisor, Chesterfield County
• Ms. Katie Sloan, Coalition Coordinator – Smart Beginnings Hopewell-Prince George
• Tim Gresham, President and CEO, Conexus
• Melissa Perry, Community Programs and Public Health Director, Conexus

The panel will gather for it’s first program assessment in January.

Halloween has been a longtime favorite tradition for kids of all ages.  A few important safety tips to remember when selecting that perfect costume:

Many costumes come with “props” – some of these props (wands, swords, canes, sticks, etc…) can have sharp or pointed ends.  Moving around (especially in the dark) with some of these props can create a hazard for your eyes.   Please give strong consideration as to age appropriate props for costumes and think ahead about some of potential tripping hazards of moving in groups in the dark.

You should also make sure that costumes fit well; costumes that are too long or otherwise present tripping hazards should be avoided.  Be sure that your walkway is clear of debris and decorations that could trip trick-or-treaters as well.

Also worth mentioning are Cosmetic contact lenses, false eyelashes, and make up.  Contact lenses should never be worn without a prescription.  Contact lenses, when fitted or worn improperly, can cause serious eye conditions.  Use extra caution, especially in younger children who may be more prone to rubbing their eyes, when applying heavy makeup and lashes to the eyes.

Read this article from Eyecare.org about these and other "Halloween Hazards."

Happy Halloween!