Verity's Retinoblastoma Page

Hi, our daughter, Verity, was diagnosed with Unilateral Retinoblastoma just after Easter 2000. She had her left eye enucleated (removed) at St Barts Hospital, London on Thursday 4th May 2000. At the time, she was 13 months old. So far, everything points to this having cured her cancer, although she is still having 6 monthly EUAs (examination under anaesthetic) to make sure.

This is Verity. This was taken about a week before her operation. Notice the cats eye reflex from her left eye.

This is Verity being held by her Mum after the operation (For Verity the op was about 90 mins long)

Verity the next day (Friday). Apart from needing some calpol, she was pretty much back to being herself. The bandage is just a pressure pad, held on with tape.

Saturday. The bandage is removed (officially, as opposed to the times Verity did it herself). Time to leave. The gap in front of the implant is taken up with a clear plastic shell, called a conformer.

Verity, a few days later at home. As time went on, she opened up her eye more and more.

Verity with her new eye (about 6 weeks after enucleation)

This eye was picked off the shelf. In time, they will fit hand painted eyes.

Verity and her Dad, on holiday August 2000.

Verity, at almost three, February 2002

Feb 2002, Verity uses both her left and right hand when she draws.

She is an active, bouncy (strong willed!!!!!) loving  two year old. She does everything her elder brother and sister did at a similar age. She swims (with armbands on!), goes to playgroup, runs about with her friends and enjoys and learns from life.

Further information about life with a child with Rb, including our experience with artificial eyes, click here

If you have any questions, e mail us at s.clarkson@btinternet.com

Also, for more general information (especially if you are in the U.K. and want to know what to expect at Barts) don't forget the Retinoblastoma Society Website

For a printer friendly version of this page click here

Whatever happens remember that, yes Rb is a form of cancer, but it is generally treatable and there are many kids like Verity who have had it and are doing fine.

Our thoughts are with you

Simon and Fiona Clarkson

February 2002