 | "I found out I had Optic Nerve Hypoplasia after a visit to the ophthalmologist at age about six years old. When I first started getting shots I was very scared, but my mom helped by giving me my shots at night." Brandon, age 13 |
 | "...having a child with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia can be very isolation. Trying to explain the condition to the many doctors and psychologists you see, trying to explain it to teachers, and at IEP meetings. It can be a lonely process... With all of that, my husband and I consider ourselves very lucky to have Zachary in our lives. He is such a happy child. He has a unique sensitivity for everything and everyone around him. He has changed our lives in ways I never thought possible. I can honestly say I would not change anything about my son. He truly is a joy and a gift." Kimberly and Adam, parents of Zachary, age 6 |
 | "When I first learned about my son's diagnosis I felt very overwhelmed. After my initial reaction, I quickly realized the best way for me to help him was to learn as much as I could about his medical condition. I had to adopt a new mind-set to take one day at a time and at the same time try to project what his future needs would entail. When my son brought home a letter home from school informing me that he was selected as Student of the Month and being recognized for his outstanding character traits of integrity and perseverance, it was then I knew it was going to be OK. "Through every challenging moment I remind myself that beneath the diagnosis is a child full of hope and promise." Alison, mother of Blake, age 9 |