Brentwood, TN (June 11, 2020) – The National Lighting Bureau (NLB) has collected 1,200 incandescent lightbulbs for the American Porphyria Foundation (APF). With an initial goal of 500 bulbs, the NLB was able to nearly triple this, with donations from LEDVANCE, Imperial Lighting Maintenance, Signify, SATCO, and Lambda 530 Consulting.
The APF is committed to improving the health and quality of life for those suffering from Porphyria disorders, including Congenital Erythropoietic Porphyria (CEP). Affecting approximately 200 people in the United States, this rare disorder causes extreme sensitivity to light. Individuals with CEP risk acute scars and blisters if exposed to sunlight or artificial light.
While there is no treatment for this disease, symptoms can be managed by replacing fluorescents and LEDs with incandescent bulbs, which emit less long-wave light that damages patients’ skin. Unfortunately, incandescent bulbs are becoming obsolete. “CEP requires constant protection from harmful lighting to avoid deterioration of the body. The move toward energy efficient lighting has made it even more difficult for our patients to source safe indoor lighting,” said Kristen Wheeden of the APF.
This is why Wheeden reached out to Randy Reid, Executive Director of the NLB, to request incandescent bulb donations. “The NLB has a rich tradition of working with many organizations,” said Reid, “we were honored that the APF called us for assistance and that our industry quickly stepped up to assist.”
Reid reached out to the NLB’s Board of Directors, and word quickly spread. In less than a week, the NLB had collected 1,200 incandescent lightbulbs for the cause.
Both the NLB and the APF have been amazed by the momentous support from the industry. Wheeden expressed gratitude on behalf of the APF, “This is a beautiful example of two communities coming together—one with resources than can help save another.”
About the NLB
The National Lighting Bureau (NLB) exists to create demand for High-Benefit Lighting®— efficient lighting designed to optimize human performance, health, safety, and commerce — by educating those who make and influence decisions about lighting.
About the APF
The APF’s mission is to improve the health and well-being of all individuals and families impacted by Porphyria. They have maintained a relentless focus on education, advocacy, support services and research for the prevention, treatment and cure of the Porphyrias.