What We Fund

We fund research and practical supports so every child can grow into a future defined by possibility.

OUR PRIORITIES

  • Clinical Research & Treatments

    We know that vision and balance create the biggest difficulties for individuals living with Usher 1B, with a majority of patients wanting their vision loss to slow and stop. With this in mind, our focus is around treatments that slow/stop vision loss; restore vision when loss is associated with retinitis pigmentosa due to MYO7A deficiency; and support research around vestibular dysfunction and ways to improve outcomes.

  • Mental & Emotional Wellbeing

    We invest in organizations that believe people living with Usher 1B can do and be anything they want to be. Developing independence and confidence in children, adolescents and adults through emotional support, advocacy and training is critical to our mission of improving the lives of those living with Usher Syndrome today.

  • Language, Communication & Connection

    We believe in a language first approach and in the importance of providing early access to language acquisition, be it spoken or signed. As patients grow, their access to language may change and our goal is to support those patients through their journey, whether they need auditory oral support, tactile sign, or signed language learning & development.

  • Independence, Mobility & Assistive Solutions

    Every person with Usher Syndrome is an individual, and every case is unique. Treatments that may work for one person, may not work for another. That is why we continue to invest in technologies and devices that improve the lives of those living with Usher Syndrome today. We understand that just because someone is DeafBlind does not mean they are incapable of living wonderful, full and independent lives. We want to ensure each person has the tools they need to live the life they want.

Focused and Accountable

Usher Syndrome 1B is underfunded, yet scientifically tractable, at a pivotal moment in gene therapy research. With a small, defined patient population, every dollar has outsized impact.

Our Commitment

The Fairfield Fund is firmly committed to transparent decision-making, exemplary governance, and unwavering stewardship of our mission to improve the lives of patients living with Usher Syndrome, and particularly Usher Syndrome 1B.

Decision Making

Our independent Board uses a transparent, mission-aligned matrix to evaluate every grant. Final funding decisions are based on aggregated scores, board discussion, and consensus, ensuring each investment meets rigorous standards for impact.