Many parents and survivors report signs and symptoms of retinoblastoma and related second cancers to primary care providers. Prompt referral is vital for timely diagnosis and optimal treatment. WE C Hope CEO Abby White explores who needs referral and when, and the key elements of an effective referral process – for children with possible eye cancer, and survivors throughout life.
Primary care providers are pivotal in the timely diagnosis of retinoblastoma and related second cancers. They are usually the first contact for parents and survivors concerned about signs and symptoms. WE C Hope CEO Abby White explores their key role, the challenges they face in recognizing signs and securing a swift referral, and the need for education targeting primary care providers.
Though small and far-flung, our global retinoblastoma family stands strong together. Members of WE C Hope USA’s Board of Directors and past One Rb World participants explain how this conference unites us and strengthens ohana. In trial, grief, hope, and triumph, we share and learn from our collective experience, support one another, and strive to care for all.
Laulima signifies the power of cooperation, teamwork and collective effort. This Hawaiian concept of many hands striving together drives the One Rb World conference, taking place in Honolulu this October. Members of our 2024 conference team explain how laulima inspires their work for this global community, united to advance retinoblastoma care for all.
Daisy’s Eye Cancer Fund (now World Eye Cancer Hope) evolved from the generosity of one family sharing hope with another at opposite ends of the earth, creating light within the darkness that retinoblastoma brought to their lives. Rb Survivor and Daisy Fund co-founder, Abby White, shares Rati’s story, and how her experience led to our hope-building work today.
In the first half of this article, we met Rati and Daisy, two young children with retinoblastoma who inspired the foundation of Daisy’s Eye Cancer Fund in 2004. In part 2, Rb Survivor and Daisy Fund co-founder, Abby White, reflects on what happened after Rati died – our journey to World Eye Cancer Hope (WE C Hope), One Rb World, and advocacy for all children, survivors and families.
One Retinoblastoma World is community, conversation and collaboration for the best lifelong Rb care and support. Previous participants share why the event is so valuable. Rb survivor and WE C Hope CEO, Abby White, considers the many benefits of participating in person compared to attending online, and some ways we can travel “kuleana” to the conference.
Despite advances in retinoblastoma treatment, effective care is challenged globally by delayed diagnosis. Early diagnosis saves lives and improves sight-saving options. Rb survivor and WE C Hope CEO, Abby White, explores common reasons for delayed diagnosis, four pillars needed to achieve routine early diagnosis, and how our One Rb World community is united in this goal.
We recap a highly successful first conference in Africa for the International Society of Ocular Oncology, and look forward to One Retinoblastoma World 2024 in Honolulu, Hawaii. With One Rb World meeting co-chairs Dr. Jesse L. Berry, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, USA; Sandra E. Staffieri PhD, Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Australia; and Marissa D. Gonzalez, World Eye Cancer Hope USA.
Childhood eye cancer and its lifelong impacts can be a lonely, overwhelming experience. Connecting with others who understand is a healing balm for many. On November 4th, nearly 100 young patients, survivors, family and friends gathered to celebrate and support the amazing Rb community in Southern California. Marissa D. Gonzalez, bilateral Rb survivor and WE C Hope USA President, shares highlights from another delightful Family Day.
