Color Blindness Treatment in India

Ayaan Johnson, a 7-year-old in first...

Ayaan Johnson, a 7-year-old in first grade, was struggling. His teacher noted he couldn't follow color-coded instructions on the smartboard and often colored skies purple and grass brown. At home, he'd get frustrated when asked to 'pass the red cup' from a set of similarly toned cups. His parents, initially thinking it was inattention, grew concerned after he was teased during an art class. Their pediatrician referred them to pediatric ophthalmologist Dr. Chen. After a series of child-friendly tests using matching games and dotted plates (Ishihara), Dr. Chen diagnosed a moderate protanopia (red-blindness). She recommended a management plan focused on education and adaptation, not correction, given his age and the current limitations of treatment. The 'treatment' experience was educational for the whole family; they learned about Ayaan's unique visual world. They labeled his crayons, informed his school, and used patterns instead of just colors for organization. The outcome was not a cure but understanding. Emotionally, Ayaan transformed from a confused and sometimes withdrawn child into one who could articulate, 'I see colors my own way.' His parents' journey shifted from worry to advocacy, ensuring his environment was set up for his success.