Cataract Kids Australia is a registered charity, with the overarching goal of improving the visual outcomes of children with cataract.
Families of babies and children whose vision is affected by cataracts face many challenges. They often feel isolated and unsupported, have difficulty in accessing appropriate care, and find the practicalities of managing their child's condition overwhelming. Cataract Kids Australia was founded by parents concerned about the impacts of these challenges on other families. They aim to enhance the support and information provided to families, work with clinicians to optimise treatment outcomes and link with researchers to improve the flow of information.
For OA members wanting to enhance their understanding of the impact of childhood cataract and the patient and parent journey, visit the Cataract Kids’ Stories page.
Patient-specific information and resources tailored to the needs of patients and families can be found here and here. The Information page includes practical tips and a glossary of terms. This page links to selected Australian YouTube videos of contact lens insertion and removal in babies and toddlers. All information on the site has been reviewed by qualified health professionals in Australia for accuracy and quality.
Cataract Kids Australia also provides ‘Microgrants’ to families of children diagnosed with cataract, to assist with the costs associated with this condition such as occlusion patches, contact lenses, glasses and appointment fees that are not covered by Medicare.
Referral of families to Cataract Kids Australia where they can access a range of informal peer support and high-quality information are welcome. Cataract Kids Australia also hold monthly Zoom catchups for families – these are free but pre-registration is required via their website or social media.
Cataract Kids is active on Facebook and Twitter and they welcome orthoptists’ involvement in their work. Also look out for Cataract Kids Australia at the annual Orthoptics Australia conference!
Images courtesy of Sarah Craven Photography