Author Archives: tsusnick

What Is Cone-Rod Dystrophy? Cone-rod dystrophy is a group of more than 30 inherited diseases that, over time, cause deterioration of the specialized light-sensitive cells of the retina—the rods that densely cover the peripheral, or outlying, portion of the retina and are responsible for peripheral vision and vision in low light, and the cones which […]

What Is Microphthalmia? Microphthalmia is a condition in which one or both eyes are unusually small. An individual with microphthalmia may have accompanying birth defects, as microphthalmia is a genetic mutation. Genetics Home Reference states that one-third to one-half of people with microphthalmia have it as a component of a syndrome (range of related birth defects). How […]

Congenital achromatopsia is a hereditary eye condition that adversely affects the development of, to a varying degree, retinal “cones”; cones are photoreceptor cells that convert light into electrical images that are carried to the brain and interpreted as visual images. Cones work in bright light and are responsible for color perception, sharp visual acuity (detailed […]

  As your child continues exploring new social settings and experiences, they should try new or different hobbies and interests. Hobbies play a vital role in the development of a young adult, and they’re just as important for a young adult who is blind or low vision. Hobby engagement provides an outlet for self-expression, supports […]

1: The I-word and I  Confession time. I’ve always felt a little uneasy about “the I-word,” “independence,” especially the idea of “making” someone more independent. It’s a word that too often comes loaded with unfounded assumptions, critical comparisons, and inflexible expectations.  Take the mother who said to me admiringly, “I wish my daughter could be […]