We're dedicated to advancing research to end blindness from choroideremia
Recently diagnosed with CHM?
Choroideremia (CHM) is a rare inherited eye disease that causes progressive vision loss and can lead to complete blindness. Affecting about 1 in 50,000 people, CHM often looks similar to retinitis pigmentosa (RP), but a genetic test is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Identifying CHM correctly is critical, as treatments in development target the specific gene mutation that causes the disease. The photo to the right compares a normal eye fundus with one affected by choroideremia (CHM).
Our Impact
The CRF is dedicated to funding research, supporting those affected by CHM, and raising awareness about this rare inherited retinal condition.
#1
Largest CHM organization in the World
4,375+
CHM family members connected
$6+ mil.
$6+ mil. invested in research since 2000
76.7K+
YouTube views across 350+ videos sharing CHM education & stories
100+
Funding grants to advance treatments and find a cure for CHM
160+
Int'l Choroideremia Research Network (ICRN) Members
Supporting members since 2000
Since our founding, the Choroideremia Research Foundation has been a source of hope and connection for those living with CHM. Our community members share their experiences with vision loss, challenges, and their determination to keep moving forward. Together, we've built a foundation rooted in support and awareness, and the drive to find effective treatments and ultimately, a cure.
Saving sight is our vision. Building hope is how we'll get there.
Driving Research Forward
Since 2000, CRF has invested over $6 million in research exploring treatments and a cure for CHM — from early gene therapy studies to emerging therapies like optogenetics, stem cell therapy, and sight restoration.
Connecting a Global CHM Community
We connect individuals and families affected by CHM through events, online groups, resources and support to ensure no one faces CHM alone.
Advocacy in Action
From advocacy at scientific conferences to global outreach initiatives, we work to raise awareness of CHM and drive momentum toward a cure.
Your Support Powers Sight-Saving Research
By giving today, you join a community united in the fight against blindness caused by CHM.
Voices of Our Community
Cory MacDonald
CHMer & CRF Engagement Director
“We have a mantra in our group: adjust and press on. Changes come—they can be tough—but I’ve been working with patients for 30 years, and I tell them the same thing: this isn’t a wall, it’s a speed bump. It might slow you down a bit, or make you change direction slightly, but it can only stop you if you let it. Living with a rare disease is life-changing, but it’s not life-ending.”
Eric Hartman
CHMer & CRF Director of Advocacy
“My advice to anyone navigating the CHM process and diagnosis is to reach out to the foundation. Reach out to the members. If you’re a mother who has just learned your child has CHM, we have a support group for you, and many of our members can be a personal resource to talk with. The same goes for men and younger men—we have people who are experiencing what you’re going through and can help you realize that you can still have a thriving life, even with a CHM diagnosis.”
Angela Ricketts
CHM Carrier & Mom of a CHMer
“My son asked, ‘Can these doctors fix me?’ I told him no—you’re not broken. But these doctors and researchers show up every day, win or lose, and keep going. Hearing that this community and organization motivate them… well, they are our motivation too.”
Stay connected by receiving updates and communications from CRF.
CRF is registered as a US 501(c)3 nonprofit organization EIN: 04-3511754
Our mission is to raise funds in support of scientific research leading to a treatment or cure of choroideremia, a hereditary retinal-degenerative disease that causes blindness; to educate people affected by the disease; and to inform the public.
©Copyright 2025 The Choroideremia Research Foundation Inc. All Rights Reserved.