“Vision Screening—and a Lifesaver”: Lucy Nash’s Story
- John Wills
- Nov 4, 2025
- 1 min read
A routine school vision screening can feel like a quick check before recess. For Lucy Nash, it changed everything.
As a fifth grader at Sam Houston Elementary, Lucy’s screening with the Maryville Lions flagged something unusual. A note was sent home recommending a follow-up with an ophthalmologist. That appointment led to urgent testing, a specialist referral to UT Hospital, and a diagnosis of hydrocephalus—dangerously high pressure behind the eye. After an 11-hour surgery to place shunts, Lucy recovered. Her doctors told the family that without rapid discovery, the outcome could have been tragic within days.
Lucy shared her story so others would know what these screenings really do: they protect sight—and sometimes lives. This is why Maryville Lions volunteers show up with equipment, training, and a neighborly determination to help. Early detection connects children and families to the care they need, right here in Blount County and across East Tennessee.
We’re grateful for Lucy’s courage and for dedicated parents, educators, and healthcare partners who act quickly when something isn’t quite right. Stories like this are the heartbeat of our mission to serve and safeguard vision in our community.
Be part of the next success story
When you give a little time, you help a neighbor a lot. Join a screening team, share our posts, or invite a friend to get involved—because service feels good, and it does real good.
Learn more and get involved: maryvillelions.org
Follow and share updates: Maryville Lions Club on Facebook