Blind Childrens Center

4120 Marathon Street, Los Angeles, California 90029 (323)664-2153

A family-centered agency serving children with visual impairments

IN THIS ISSUE

• Kindergarten Korner
• Family Focused Multi-disciplinary Model Program
• Conquering the Wall
• Accomplished Solo Flutist
• Wish List

The Amazing Omar

Child

Omar is a 13 month old little bundle of energy. He was enrolled at the Center at 5 months old with a diagnosis of Optic Nerve Hypoplasia. ONH is the underdevelopment of the optic nerve bundle connecting the eye to the brain. It is one of the three most common causes of visual impairment in young children.

"I was simply devastated," said mom Maria. "With a diagnosis of ONH, comes many other physical and developmental complications. My family was very concerned for Omar's quality of life. However, we then took Omar to see a doctor who specializes in ONH and he changed the diagnosis to Ocular Albinism."

Ocular Albinism is lack of melanin pigment in the eyes while the skin and hair show normal or near normal coloration.

"We were very happy when Omar's diagnosis changed. He has no other health concerns at this time. The staff at the Blind Childrens Center was very supportive.

"They really helped my family and me get through all of this. It was a very difficult time. There was so much to understand, doctors were telling us many things, and Omar had to go through so many tests."

"Omar exhibits photo-phobia which is sensitivity to light and nystagmus which is the involuntary shaking of the eyes. This has decreased since he started wearing prescription lenses," said Rosalinda Mendiola, Teacher of the Visually Impaired. "He also demonstrates a mild degree of amblyopia where one eye is weaker than the other. He compensates for this by feeling his way on the ground when he is uncertain of terrain changes. Depth perception may also be an issue which we are closely monitoring. Overall, Omar is very fortunate to have a high degree of functional vision which he uses effectively. Occasionally he is distracted and bumps or falls, but in general he is an active little guy."

Omar's teacher Lily Ulloa says that Omar is a joy to have in the classroom. "He just loves to dance. All you have to do is hum a little tune and he starts. Mom will pick him up and put out her hand. He quickly takes it in his and they dance around the room."

Lilly added, "His social skills and language are developing nicely. He is aware of what he is doing and is able to communicate what he wants; he acts with purpose. His fine and gross motor skills are really taking shape. He holds his spoon very well. He loves to eat. He is taking two or three steps now but his lack of depth perception is making walking a bit scary for him. We are working very hard on this and feel that Omar will be walking on his own in no time."

"I want to thank the Center for everything they've done for my family," says mom. I started out fearful, afraid to ask questions, afraid to speak up. Now, I see new families coming to the Center in need, feeling frightened and hopeless, and I feel confident that I can actually help them. I share my experience with them and let them know that their child is filled with endless possibilities for a bright future. I can tell them they are in the right place."

Gift in memory of sister

A very special THANK YOU to Pradip V. Choksi who gave a generous gift to the Blind Childrens Center in memory of his sister, Surekha Choksi.

Pradip Choksi (pictured, center) recently visited the Center and met with Executive Director Midge Horton, Board Member Lawrence F. Meyer and student, Jennifer.

On to new adventures

Two long-time employees of the Blind Childrens Center retired over the summer. They will be missed. Marjorie Nickleberry spent 38 years at the Center as our school nurse and Hasbelt Valencia was a teaching assistant for 28 years. The children send their hugs and best wishes.

Promotion

Laurie Headley was recently promoted to Assistant Development Director. She has been with the Blind Childrens Center for over 20 years and has worn many hats from office manager to special events coordinator. In her new position, Laurie will be working with grantors and individual donors and will remain event coordinator. Congratulations, Laurie!

Planned Giving

Please remember the Center when planning for your Will or Trust. For more information, contact Muriel Scharf, Development Director, at the Center (323) 664-2153 ext 330.

You made us feel very special

A very special thank you to Mr. Simon Singer for hosting a spectacular dinner for the Blind Childrens Center Moms. It was a beautiful evening.

Chef Neno Mladenovic prepared an elegant meal and Marion Ruth offered her lovely home for this event.

You made us feel very special!

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