Day of Giving Stories — Sonny

The impact of your gift is real. Kacey shares how VIPS helped Sonny thrive.

We knew Sonny had Dandy Walker Syndrome by the time I was 20 weeks pregnant, but I had no idea that would have any effect on his vision. 

The day after he was born, we were told that there was a build up of blood behind his right eye, and they diagnosed him as visually impaired that very day. About a month into Sonny’s life he had surgery to drain the blood behind his eye, and unfortunately, that had to sever the connection from his retina on his right eye. 

Sonny spent 75 days in the NICU. During that time we met with an OT and PT, but never a VIPS therapist. We were told by a social worker and Sonny’s neurologist before leaving the hospital how crucial getting into VIPS would be, and we were lucky enough to have a therapist start coming out within a month of Sonny coming home. 

The first visit was a little nerve wracking for Sonny, and he put himself to sleep, but after that initial session he really started warming up to his therapist and participating in sessions more. 

By the time Sonny was almost 2, VIPS had made a HUGE difference for Sonny as far as reaching for toys, and actually pulling them close to his good eye. One of my favorite moments with VIPS was when they introduced him to the red octopus toy and he was absolutely amazed! He also loved playing visual games with his therapist as well! 

Today, Sonny is thriving. He now recognizes loved ones and his favorite toys, something the doctors never thought would be possible. He knows loved ones and absolutely loves when anyone reads books to him. He also LOVES Bluey and will do almost anything to watch it with his good eye. 

I have no doubt in my mind that this program changed the entire course of Sonny’s life.