07/22/2025
When Ellie first learned she was pregnant with her son Silas, she knew there were going to be medical challenges ahead. Early on, doctors identified concerns with his kidneys, and she was told that a miscarriage was a possibility. As her pregnancy progressed, she held onto hope, unaware that the biggest challenge was yet to come.
When Silas was born, Ellie and her family were met with a surprise, his eyes were completely opaque. Local doctors had never seen anything like it before, and uncertainty loomed over his diagnosis. A specialist later confirmed that Silas had bilateral sclerocornea, a rare condition affecting the transparency of the corneas. It was so rare that the specialist admitted he had only read about it in medical books. The initial prognosis was devastating: Silas was declared "blackout blind," with no known treatments to restore his sight.
The news was overwhelming for Ellie, a young first-time mother with no family history of blindness. The uncertainty of Silas’ future weighed heavily on her. Despite the challenges, Ellie and her family refused to give up hope. They sought further medical opinions, leading them to OHSU Casey Eye Institute, where they met Dr. Travis Redd. For the first time, they were presented with a glimmer of hope - corneal transplants.
Given the rarity of Silas’ condition, the procedure carried risks, but Ellie and her family made the brave decision to move forward. The process was daunting - multiple exams under anesthesia, complex surgeries, and an intensive post-operative care routine that included hourly eye drops. But through it all, the medical team provided unwavering support, and Ellie found herself surrounded by a community that believed in Silas’ potential.
The moment after his first transplant was unforgettable. For the first time, Ellie was able to ask, “What color are his eyes?” Dr. Redd responded with a smile: “Sweet little brown eyes.” Tears of joy filled the room. The surgery was a success, and Silas had a new chance at sight.
As the days passed, signs of progress became evident. Silas, once unable to track movement, started responding to light and shadows. He developed a fascination with shiny objects, particularly his favorite stuffed disco ball, Demi. Family members also witnessed the small yet miraculous moments. His grandmother, whom he calls Nonna, rejoiced when Silas’ face lit up upon seeing her each morning. These once-unimaginable experiences became their new reality.
Silas' journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Each milestone, from reaching for a toy, tracking movement, and recognizing loved ones serves as a testament to the power of medical advancements and the generosity of cornea donors. One year after his first transplant, his corneas remain clear, a medical miracle in itself. While the future remains uncertain, Ellie and her family continue to cherish every moment, embracing the hope that has guided them from the start.
Inspired by her son’s resilience, Ellie has embarked on a new journey of her own. She is now pursuing a career in the field of vision education, hoping to support children like Silas and families navigating similar experiences.
Silas’ story is one of strength, perseverance, and unwavering hope. It is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the gift of sight is possible, and every small victory is worth celebrating.
