[Editor's note: In 2007, AFB Press published "Cortical Visual Impairment: An Approach to Assessment and Intervention" by Christine Roman-Lantzy. Pictured on the cover was 12 year-old Jeremy Sun. We recently caught up with his mother, Cynthia, to see how Jeremy, now 18, was doing.]
Tell us about Jeremy. How has he been doing?
Jeremy is now 18 years old and ready to move on to a new environment this autumn. His case manager is now putting together a program which incorporates some academics and more functional training. In his last year of high school, Jeremy would take the bus on his own to go home, which gave him a sense of accomplishment. However, what he did not realize was his instructor usually would tail him from behind to make sure he is safe.
Jeremy continues to enjoy swimming twice a week and marathon practice once a week. He is passionate about marathon running and last February, he participated in the 10K marathon. He'd done this race the last two years with his trainer running next to him. In the last few years before he took up marathon running, the whole family took ski holidays in Japan. We hired a ski instructor who skied with Jeremy on green slopes—he is quite good, getting off ski lifts and slowly skiing or wedging down until the flat area where he had to stop.
He is full of compassion and always enthusiastic to engage himself with people around him. He has won the hearts of so many neighbors and is often the center of attention. Jeremy is very sociable and always means well. He is leading a meaningful life.
When you look at the photo of Jeremy on the CVI book, what kind of memories do you have of that time?
When I look at the photo of Jeremy on the CVI book, the memories I have are: (1) I am so glad I found Chris Roman to advise on Jeremy's program; (2) I hope Jeremy will be as functional as he can be; and (3) we must not lose faith in Jeremy because he has potential.
Do people ever ask you about Jeremy's photo on the book cover? What do they say and how do you answer?
Only people at school saw the book and my answer was I believe Jeremy is a good example for students with similar conditions and I am glad to share my experience.
What impact did Chris Roman, her work, and the book have on Jeremy’s and your lives?
I came to know Chris Roman on a CVI weblink. I emailed her, but was not hopeful for a reply. To my surprise, she did. She gave me good advice and was extremely encouraging on Jeremy's rehabilitation. She came to Hong Kong, met with Jeremy, my family, and our case manager and devised a program that became Jeremy's core training for the years to follow.
What advice would you have for teachers or parents who need to learn about CVI for the first time, and might be picking up a book with your son’s photo on it?
Each CVI is different and each has his/her own potential. Have faith in your child and do not give up.
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"Cortical Visual Impairment: An Approach to Assessment and Intervention" is available at the AFB Press Bookstore.
