BAY RIDGE — Bay Ridge Councilmember Justin Brannan hit a truly inspirational note with his most recent e-blast.
Brannan, who was diagnosed with keratoconus — a rare eye disease that can lead to blindness — in his late 30s, ultimately received a cornea transplant in his left eye “that completely changed [his] life.” In his e-blast, sent out on Saturday, he discussed the importance of National Donate Life Blue & Green Day (April 14), a day to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation.
“I want to share my story, and encourage you to consider signing up to become an organ donor,” Brannan wrote. “You can literally save lives.”
Brannan’s story was also shared on social media by the New York City Council to help raise awareness.
Image courtesy of Councilmember Justin Brannan.
Brannan has worked and continues to work tirelessly to pass legislation providing free eye exams and glasses to low-income New Yorkers, as not everyone has access to quality vision care, he noted.
“Vision impairment can be chaotic; the everyday activities you take for granted become impossible,” Brannan said. “Basic eye care is a fundamental need, not a luxury. (And) in the greatest city in the world, no one should be too poor to see.”
For information on how to become an organ donor, click here.
SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.
ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.
