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Patrick HeatonBoy with cortical visual impairment
Country:
 Great Britain |
Content:
- Patrick's Journey with Cortical Visual Impairment
- A Magical Encounter at DreamWorks Light
- Peakaboo Patrick: A Family's Mission
- Social Support and Fundraising Success
- CVI and Its Neurological Impacts
- Additional Health Challenges
- Optimism and Hope
- CVI: A Relatively Common Childhood Condition
Patrick's Journey with Cortical Visual Impairment
Patrick, a young boy from Mold, Wales, experienced the joy of seeing for the first time at age two, despite being diagnosed with cortical visual impairment (CVI) at just six months old. CVI affects the brain's ability to process visual information, leading to significant vision loss.
A Magical Encounter at DreamWorks Light
Patrick's love for light and sensory environments led his family to the DreamWorks Light event in Liverpool. Colorful, larger-than-life lanterns of his favorite animated characters illuminated the space, allowing him to experience the joy of seeing these beloved figures.
Peakaboo Patrick: A Family's Mission
Inspired by their son's challenges, Patrick's parents, Lily and Damien, established the "Peakaboo Patrick" charity to raise funds for his treatments. Their goal was to provide him with access to specialized therapies in the US, Canada, and the UK, as the NHS does not currently cover treatments for CVI.
Social Support and Fundraising Success
The family's tireless efforts, along with the generosity of strangers, friends, and loved ones, resulted in the donation of over £17,000 within 18 months. Patrick's grandmother, Karen, even took to the skies with tandem skydives to support their cause.
CVI and Its Neurological Impacts
CVI disrupts the part of the brain responsible for creating visual images, despite the eyes functioning normally. While Patrick is legally blind, he is working on developing his residual vision through specialized therapy.
Additional Health Challenges
Patrick's undiagnosed neurological disorder has also affected his mobility, resulting in delayed development. He has yet to crawl or walk. Last year, he underwent emergency surgery at Liverpool's Alder Hey Children's Hospital to correct a mid-gut malrotation.
Optimism and Hope
Despite the challenges, Patrick's family remains optimistic. They believe that with continued support, their son will eventually become a "healthy, happy little boy" who overcomes his limitations.
CVI: A Relatively Common Childhood Condition
CVI is the most common cause of visual impairment in children in developed countries. Unfortunately, it often goes unrecognized. Visual information travels through a pathway in the brain known as the dorsal stream, which processes data for movement, and a ventral stream, which facilitates perception. CVI occurs when these systems are disrupted, often due to brain injuries, infections, or premature birth.
