News
Aston’s Story
Aston was just six weeks old when he was diagnosed with Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy (FEVR)
Being a parent is one of the greatest joys in life. It’s hard to describe the feeling becoming a parent generates – from the intense love of your new born baby, to always hoping for a bright, healthy and safe future of acceptance and accomplishment for your child.
The news of Aston’s condition came as a complete shock.
For most of us, fortune smiles our way and our babies grow into healthy and happy children, eventually enjoying as adults that same sort of love and concern you felt as they start their own families.
But not all journeys are the same. Aston was just six weeks old when he was diagnosed with Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) – a genetic condition that affects the retina.
The news of Aston’s condition came as a complete shock to mum, Jackie, and dad, Manny, especially after Aston’s brother Byron was born with perfect vision and no hint of the genetic condition.
“Looking back, hearing the news from the doctor about Aston’s condition was a very emotional day for Manny and I. We were both very concerned for the extra challenges the future held for Aston living with vision impairment,” Jackie said.
Fortunately for Aston, Jackie and Manny sought help from Guide Dogs Queensland to access specialised programs for children with low or no vision.
