Tate was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma at the age of 2 years. It was difficult having a child that young lose an eye. But, on the positive side, he doesn’t remember having sight in both. It is amazing how he adjusted to having sight in only one eye. He performs in theatre; he plays soccer, baseball and gymnastics; he plays the piano; and is a wiz at video games. He says the only thing he wishes he could do is see 3D movies.
The prosthetic eye that Kim fashioned for Tate is truly a work of art. People don’t even know that he has a fake eye. I had the privilege to watch him hand paint Tate’s last eye and the process was fascinating.
Having Kim Erickson as Tate’s ocular specialist has made our journey much easier. Tate has grown up with Kim and only trusts him to work with his eye. Kim has incredible patience with children. We would also like to give kudos to Pam who is Kim’s right hand person assisting in town and out. They are a really great team.
Steve, Linda & Tate