2014 - WE C Hope

Quote: "Two roads diverged in a wood and I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference." Robert Frost

A Rough Road Through The Valley

June 8, 2014

So many days I feel I am banging my head against a wall, watching children die who could have been saved with clear information, simple surgery and emotional support. But the knowledge of how life could be made better for each child, family and survivor is a strong motivational pull. The suffering that can be mitigated with relatively small resources. Somehow when I think I have no more energy, I mine a new seam from within, and from the encouragement and kindness of others, and I move forward, one step at a time.

A family is pictured with their medical team, including ophthalmologist, oncologist, nurse specialists and social worker.

Forming A Therapeutic Alliance: prescription for success

May 21, 2014

A positive, open relationship between parents and the child’s medical team is vital throughout treatment and beyond. A therapeutic alliance requires good communication, mutual trust, respect and care, as well as knowledge and skills to provide high quality medical care.

This image diagram describes each group of the International Intraocular Retinoblastoma Classification

Staging and Classification for Intraocular Retinoblastoma

May 9, 2014

Intraocular retinoblastoma is classified and staged to help doctors describe the degree of cancer in a child’s eye, determine best treatment options, define potential for cure / eye salvage, and compare impact of different therapies. Each eye is classified to define potential for safely saving the eye / vision. Stage of bilateral Rb is based on the worst affected eye, as an indicator of risk to the child’s life. When an eye might be classified into one of two groups, the higher risk group should be selected. This reduces risk of eye loss or life threatening relapse due to under-treatment.

A baby has one red pupil and one white pupul - the classic early sign of eye cancer in children.

PhotoRED: Know the Glow and Check for Normal Fundal Reflex in Children.

April 21, 2014

Taking photographs to check for red eye reflex is one of the best ways parents can detect early signs of serious eye disease in young children. Here we explain red eye photography and the simple technique all parents should know to check for healthy red reflex in children.