Across the globe, a child goes blind every single minute. Around 124 million people are severely visually impaired and about 37 million people are blind.

This October, New Jersey and Pennsylvania welcome the first ever Blindness Awareness Month (BAM) thanks to The Little Rock Foundation (TLRF), Governor Corzine of New Jersey, Governor Rendell of Pennsylvania and many others.

"We are honored that Governor Corzine and Governor Rendell have recognized the importance of expanding the education of the public and named October as Blindness Awareness Month so that many organizations can work together to build a better world for the blind and visually impaired," executive director of TLRF, Tina Fiorentino said in a press release.

According to http://www.blindnessawarenessmonth.org, TLRF is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children who are visually impaired from early childhood to adulthood.

TLRF was founded by Tina and Rocco Fiorentino after their twin baby boys, Michael and Rocco, were born four months premature in 1996. Michael died at birth and Rocco had less than a 5% chance of survival, but after ten surgeries he survived and was left with total blindness caused by retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

The Fiorentinos were desperate for support and information and, after experiencing frustration at the lack of resources available, they decided to form a foundation to help other parents with similar challenges.

"I believe it is important to bring awareness to people that there are many children and adults who are blind and visually impaired," TLRF Community Events Coordinator, Debbie Nichols said. "However, there are not enough blind children population that doctors are totally educated on how to treat a blind child."

During the month of October, because it is BAM, there will be a number of activities and events to help spread awareness of ways to prevent, treat and cure blindness and other visual impairments. BAM came from the idea and determination of 12 year old, Rocco Fiorentino.

"Last year, I had an idea about educating the public about eye diseases, eye care and to address the rising trend of blindness and severe visual impairment." Rocco Fiorentino said. "So I went to our local Assemblyman, Lou Greenwald for his support in asking the state of New Jersey to recognize October as Blindness Awareness Month . With his help and Assemblywoman Pam Lampitt, they were able to convince Governor Corzine to sign a bill into law officially naming October as Blindness Awareness Month."

According to Tina Fiorentino there are currently 80 organizations participating in BAM in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

"Anyone can get involved too by going to our website at www.blindnessawarenessmonth.org for details on fundraising events and ideas," Tina said. "Please help us spread the word!"

Adults and children with visual challenges need the help of others and according to Debbie Nichols, people should not be intimidated to ask a blind person if they need help.

"To make a difference in the life of a child who is blind or visually impaired, accept them in your school and be a friend to them," Tina said. "If you see them facing a challenge, such as finding a classroom or going down a flight of steps, give them a helping hand."

Remember, October is BAM only in the states of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, but could possibly expand to other states as well.

"We are very excited about the opportunities to tell the stories of people like me who face life with the challenges of being blind or visually impaired," Rocco said. "Maybe we can start in New Jersey and Pennsylvania and take this nationwide!"