OUR HISTORY

Founded in 1986 by Ophthalmologist, P.K. Gieser, M.D., along with his friend Edwin Deicke, our first major benefactor, Spectrios Institute for Low Vision(formerly Deicke Center for Visual Rehabilitation) has brought hope and independence to over 10,000 people of all ages struggling with vision loss.

In 1991, a children's outreach program, Seeing Is Believing was established to provide free diagnostic exams and optical devices to student with low vision in Illinois.

Since 1992, Spectrios Institute for Low Vision has been accredited by the National Accreditation Council for Agencies Serving the Blind and Visually Impaired.

In 1995, our technology department (Eye Tec) was added to our program, providing the latest adaptive technology for people with vision loss.

In 1997, working with Marionjoy-Rehab Link, a driving program for persons who need telescopic glasses to meet state criteria for a daytime driver's license was founded.

In 2002, we moved to our new facility after conducting a successful 2 million dollar capital campaign.

Also in 2002, we began our Residency Program in collaboration with the Illinois College of Optometry and the Chicago Lighthouse, educating new doctors' of optometry in the field of low vision rehabilitation. We are proud of all nine of doctors who have completed this program.