“Every child deserves the opportunity for a bright future, free from visual impairment”

For student Katie Elliott, World Sight Day is a reminder of the importance of early detection of retinoblastoma, and an opportunity to advocate for families experiencing childhood eye cancer.

At four years old, she lost her right eye following a diagnosis of retinoblastoma. Now, aged 21, she is a sight loss advocate and model, aiming to spread a message of body confidence and prevent bullying.

Glasgow-based Elliott became a Fight for Sight ambassador in September and uses her social media platforms to talk about enucleation and prosthetics, alongside travel blogs and beauty and fashion content.

Ahead of World Sight Day, OT heard from Elliott about what the theme of children’s eye health means for her, becoming a Fight for Sight ambassador, and the importance of early intervention.

How did you become an ambassador with Fight for Sight? What made you want to connect with the organisation in this way?

Sarah, who is the head of communication and external affairs for the charity, contacted me to discuss engaging with Fight for Sight as an ambassador. My experience growing up with sight loss made me aware of how important eye health is, so when the opportunity came up, I felt like it was the perfect way to change my experience into something positive. Fight for Sights' dedication to preventing blindness and funding research really stood out to me and I knew I wanted to contribute to their mission.

What does World Sight Day, and the 2024 theme of children’s eye health, mean for you personally?

World Sight Day holds significant meaning for me, especially being diagnosed with retinoblastoma and suffering sight loss so young. It is a reminder of the importance of eye health, particularly in children. The 2024 focus on children’s eye health highlights the need for early detection and intervention, which can change outcomes for young patients. This day inspires me to advocate for greater support and resources for families with similar experiences. Every child deserves the opportunity for a bright future, free from visual impairment.

Could you tell us about your sight-loss advocacy and what it means to you to share your story and talk about prosthetics and enucleation on social media?

Advocating for sight loss awareness means a lot to me because I believe in the power of sharing personal stories. Talking openly about things like prosthetics and enucleation on my social media platforms has allowed me to connect with others who are going through or have had similar experiences. It also helps break down some of the misconceptions or fears around sight loss. My advocacy is about showing families, children, and young adults that life can still be full even after significant challenges such as sight loss.

If I could share one message with optometrists this World Sight Day... Your work is incredibly important, especially when it comes to children's eye health – you’re making a real difference

Is there one thing you would like to see change when it comes to children’s eye health?

I’d love to see more focus on education and early screening. So many eye conditions, like retinoblastoma, can have better outcomes if caught early. I’d like to see more programmes that ensure every child gets regular sight checks and access to the care they need.

If you could share one message with optometrists this World Sight Day, what would you say?

If I could share one message with optometrists this World Sight Day, it would be to remember that early detection can change lives. You have the power to help children see the world more clearly and, in some cases, even save their sight. Your work is incredibly important, especially when it comes to children's eye health – you’re making a real difference.