12/10/2010
Vision Express and Childhood Eye Cancer Trust are working together to raise awareness and funds for children's eye health. Mother-of-two Julie Firth and family have been helped by the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust, after it was revealed that her daughter was suffering from a life threatening-condition.
Less than three years ago, Julie feared she may lose her young daughter after discovering she had a rare form of eye cancer. They had noticed a whitish reflection in one of her eyes and initially dismissed it as a trick of the light; although after getting it checked out, Isla was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma.
Approximately 40-50 children get diagnosed with Retinoblastoma each year in the UK, with more than 98 per cent surviving after receiving treatment.
When Isla was diagnosed, the Firth family felt totally devastated and lost. They were put in touch with the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust and received a full explanation of her diagnosis, treatment and aftercare. They were put in touch with other families who had suffered from Retinoblastoma to share advice and experiences, bringing a sense of normality to the situation.
A week after diagnosis, Isla's right eye was removed and replaced with an implant and plastic lens designed to match her old eye. She is now in good health and after learning to deal with a ‘magic' eye, receives regular checkups to ensure the cancer does not return.
Julie was so appreciative of the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust's help she is now a support worker for the charity to help others in a similar situation.
As shown in Isla's case, early diagnosis is crucial to save a child's sight and prevent cancer spreading. Regular eye tests are an easy way to detect conditions such as Retinoblastoma as well as other health concerns - book your child's eye test today!
To find out more about CHECT and Retinoblastoma, please visit their website www.chect.org.uk
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