Mehlani Dickerson, a young girl from the US, has a rare genetic disorder called Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome which make her eyes look enchantingly big and beautiful. However, having this condition means that she can develop glaucoma at certain point in her life, and even vision loss or blindness.
In fact, the syndrome represents a rare genetic disorder that causes cornea defects and iris defects. According to the National Institute of Health, people diagnosed with it “may have an off-center pupil (corectopia) or extra holes in the eyes that can look like multiple pupils (polycoria).”
It mostly develops at infants who are diagnosed with the condition during the first days or weeks of their lives, just like Mehlani.
Mehlani’s left eye shows a faint trace of iris in one corner, while the rest is entirely pupil—just like her right eye. Her eyes, just like those of the rest of the people with Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome, are sensitive to light.
Mehlani’s mother, Karina, shared a photo of her daughter that quickly grabbed the attention of many due to her unusually big eyes. And it’s not only people online who have been captivated by her appearance, but also strangers on the street.
“People always say she’s so beautiful and she’s s cute, but I felt conflicted because people notice something different about her eyes,” Karina says.
“And I worry about when she gets approached by any other kids about her eyes … kids can be mean. But I teach her when people compliment her to say “thank you” and smile.”
“Everytime were out & a stranger compliments on how big & beautiful her eyes are, I have a mental debate on whether or not I should mention her defect. I decide no, smile & say thank you. I’m always left with a weird feeling. I just pray she’ll always know how beautiful she is,” Karina posted on the social media.
Mehlani was diagnosed with glaucoma, but at this point, her vision isn’t suffering thanks to a surgery she had when she was just five months old. Mehlani’s eyes had abnormally formed drainage canals, causing fluid buildup that intensified her glaucoma. Without surgical intervention, her optic nerves might have been permanently damaged. Now, however, thanks to artificial canals, her eye pressure has remained stable.
Her mom says that they don’t know what the future holds for their little girl.
When she’s outside, Mehlani needs to wear sunglasses because her eyes are more sensitive to sunlight than a normal eye due to the glaucoma.
Through the social media, Karina and her husband found a community of support where they share experiences with others who have the same condition as their daughter.
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