Help Chef Winston Overcome His Blindness

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 his blooming career due to diabetic retinopathy (a complication of diabetes) which has caused near blindness.

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.

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 the greatest fear for an artist, and 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 his vision, and returning to the creative world of his kitchen, staff, and patrons.

Now without an income and insurance paying only partial 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 through these difficult times. All donations will 100% directly help provide for additional surgeries, pay his medical bills, and expenses. Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated. Please share this with your friends and family. Prayers are also appreciated! Thank you for your support.

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