Gina Heslop
Patricia Williams, like any proud parent, excitedly shared photos of her newborn son, Redd, with her friends. However, she was taken aback by the unpleasant response she received. Patricia soon discovered that her baby had a unique characteristic that sparked curiosity and, unfortunately, mockery.
It wasn’t until Redd was two months old that Patricia noticed his striking white hair. Concerned, she investigated further and found that his darting eyes were a typical indicator of albinism. Consulting with medical professionals, they confirmed that Redd had Oculocutaneous Albinism Type 1 (OCA1), a condition affecting one in 17,000 people worldwide.
As Redd grew older, he faced both schoolyard taunts and online bullying due to his appearance. Patricia and her husband, Dale, diligently researched albinism to prepare for their second son’s arrival, Rockwell, who was also born with the condition in 2018.
When stolen photos of Rockwell went viral online, the family faced a new challenge. Instead of fighting the impossible task of removing every shared image, they decided to become advocates for spreading awareness about albinism and preventing future bullying.
With the support of a growing online fanbase, Patricia realized that many people were unaware of albinism and the challenges individuals with the condition face. She saw this as an opportunity to raise public awareness.
Redd underwent strabismus surgery, allowing him to transition from a visually impaired private school to a regular public school. The operation proved successful and significantly improved his vision. As Redd grew older, his differences became less noticeable to his peers.
The family embraced outdoor precautions, ensuring Redd wore hats, dark shades, and sunscreen. Despite these necessary measures, Redd thrived and enjoyed a typical childhood. Rockwell, his younger sibling, also adapted well to their unique circumstances.
In April 2023, Patricia posted a video of Rockwell participating in his school’s “Western Day,” which garnered overwhelming support and admiration online. Patricia took the opportunity to dispel misconceptions about albinism, explaining that their lack of eye pigmentation gives individuals with the condition a bluish tinge to their eyes, debunking the myth of red eyes.
Today, Redd and Rockwell are flourishing and happy, surrounded by the love of their family. Through their journey, Patricia and her husband have become advocates for raising awareness, promoting acceptance, and combating bullying. Their story stands as a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the importance of embracing differences in our society.
