Through Ricky's Eyes

Ricky was experiencing extreme sudden changes in his vision. He went to the ER where at first the doctors diagnosed Ricky with Optic Neuritis and began IV Steroid treatment right away. After a few days of steroid treatment there was no visual improvement so the doctors had to dig deeper. After many tests Ricky was diagnosed with LHON (Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy) a mitochondrial disease of the optic nerve causing vision loss. He was officially diagnosed in October 2013 at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. Ricky now sees a Neuro-Ophthalmalogist and a Low Vision specialist. He is currently taking Idebenone, which is a supplement to help to stabilize his vision, although his vision will not improve with this it will hopefully stop this disease from progressing. Ricky is 23 years old and was due to graduate this year in a profession that he will no longer be able to perform with his visual acuity. We have been working on getting the tools that Ricky will need in order to live his life as independently as he can. He can no longer drive or enjoy the everyday things we take for granted. Please help by donating to Ricky's fund, we are truely grateful!