as of today, me and Vernon have walked 2.5 miles out of the 26.2 miles. We’re going to walk this month! only 23.7 miles left!


Welcome to my WAGATHON page!
Annalisa Laphen
Annalisa Laphen
Hi friends and family,
My name is Annalisa, and I’m so excited (and a little nervous!) to share that I’m taking part in this year’s WAGATHON to support Guiding Eyes for the Blind.
As many of you know, I have a rare eye disease called Stargardt’s that has progressively affected my vision. As I’ve gotten older, everyday things that once felt simple have become more challenging. This fall I’m starting my junior year at West Chester University and moving into my own apartment for the first time. The idea of living independently used to feel overwhelming and honestly, a little scary.
Everything changed when I went through the program at Guiding Eyes and was matched with my guide dog, Vernon. He has given me a level of confidence and security I didn’t know was possible. With Vernon by my side, I feel safer going out on my own, more willing to try new things, and so much more ready to take this next big step into independent living. He hasn’t just changed how I get around, he’s changed how I see (pun intended) my future.
The WAGATHON is a cumulative marathon that Vernon and I can do at our own pace throughout the month of September. The goal is to reach 26.2 miles by September 30th while raising critical funds for Guiding Eyes. Every donation helps them continue their life-changing work of pairing extraordinary dogs with people who are blind or visually impaired giving them the same freedom, confidence, and independence that Vernon has given me.
If you’re able, I would be so grateful for your support. Whether it’s a donation or simply sharing this page, it all helps Guiding Eyes keep changing lives the way they’ve changed mine.
Thank you so much for being part of this journey with me and Vernon.
With love and gratitude,
Annalisa
My name is Annalisa, and I’m so excited (and a little nervous!) to share that I’m taking part in this year’s WAGATHON to support Guiding Eyes for the Blind.
As many of you know, I have a rare eye disease called Stargardt’s that has progressively affected my vision. As I’ve gotten older, everyday things that once felt simple have become more challenging. This fall I’m starting my junior year at West Chester University and moving into my own apartment for the first time. The idea of living independently used to feel overwhelming and honestly, a little scary.
Everything changed when I went through the program at Guiding Eyes and was matched with my guide dog, Vernon. He has given me a level of confidence and security I didn’t know was possible. With Vernon by my side, I feel safer going out on my own, more willing to try new things, and so much more ready to take this next big step into independent living. He hasn’t just changed how I get around, he’s changed how I see (pun intended) my future.
The WAGATHON is a cumulative marathon that Vernon and I can do at our own pace throughout the month of September. The goal is to reach 26.2 miles by September 30th while raising critical funds for Guiding Eyes. Every donation helps them continue their life-changing work of pairing extraordinary dogs with people who are blind or visually impaired giving them the same freedom, confidence, and independence that Vernon has given me.
If you’re able, I would be so grateful for your support. Whether it’s a donation or simply sharing this page, it all helps Guiding Eyes keep changing lives the way they’ve changed mine.
Thank you so much for being part of this journey with me and Vernon.
With love and gratitude,
Annalisa
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