Hi, I’m Winston’s dad. As a fine artist coupled with a classical culinary degree from the Louisiana Culinary Institute Winston has been a rising young chef in the renowned Louisiana 5 star food-scene. Winston has been a Type 1 diabetic since childhood and in recent years has struggled to control it. On March 30th Win had to resign his current Chef position, and postpone a blooming career due to diabetic retinopathy (a complication of diabetes) which has caused near blindness.

A true visual artist and visionary with a brilliant mind, Win has always enjoyed wowing the community with his scientific mind, wit, warm heart, artistic creativity, and culinary mastery. His current blindness has now realized perhaps the greatest fear for an artist. That and the loss of personal autonomy is weighing heavily on his shoulders. Winston has always remained resilient to overcome the daily adversity of Type 1 diabetes and is now working hard to maintain a positive outlook on healing from this tragedy and moving ahead.

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when too much sugar remains in our blood stream and over time causes blood vessels in the eye to hemorrhage and form scarring.

Win has now had the first 2 surgeries to remove scar tissue which has blocked the vision in both eyes. The removal is carefully done in increments over time, and healing between is slow. His surgeon feels that Win’s eyes will require several more and perhaps different treatments.

Now without an income and insurance paying only part of the exorbitant medical costs, bills are piling up. Win has sold his car and savings have been drained. This GoFundMe account has been set up to help Winston surmount his vision loss. All donations will go 100% to directly help provide for additional surgeries and treatment, pay his medical bills, and expenses. Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated. Please share this with your friends and family. Prayers are also greatly appreciated! Thank you for your support.

Photos : Win's 2015 culinary graduation, plate from his portfolio, self portrait, 2015 culinary competition win.