Retinoblastoma International

Retinoblastoma International (RBI) is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization founded in Los Angeles in 1998. Since its inception, RBI has been committed to supporting education, clinical care, research, early diagnosis, and awareness of retinoblastoma.

Retinoblastoma is a childhood cancer that forms in the tissues of the retina (the light-sensitive layers of nerve tissue at the back of the eye). It arises from immature retinal cells in one or both eyes and usually occurs in children younger than 5 years of age and can strike from the time the child is in the womb.

If diagnosed early enough, the prognosis is very good for children with retinoblastoma. In the United States, more than 93% of children diagnosed with the disease were alive at five years after diagnosis. However, of the children stricken with this disease worldwide, 87% (mostly in developing countries) die within five years. In developed countries, 97% of those who do live have moderate to severe visual impairment.

In the year 2000, Retinoblastoma International helped pass California Assembly Bill 2185. AB 2185 promotes early and regular eye examinations for infants to detect the presence of tumors and numerous other eye problems. As a result, thousands of children in the United States may be spared from blindness and death. RBI has produced several fund raising galas, as well as golf tournaments, theater productions, and other events in order to fund their mission – the worldwide elimination of blindness, secondary cancers, and death in children caused by retinoblastoma.

For more information about RBI, please visit the Retinoblastoma International website

As some may know, former Days of our Lives cast member, Matthew Ashford is actively involved in supporting RBI in their efforts. Please read this USA Today article for more information about why this cause is so important to Matt.