MEC_Impact Report_2026 - Flipbook - Page 13
Milo’s story
Milo was diagnosed with albinism at only five
ann-Noor and Robert Dufton
days old. He had difficulty breathing and could
not open his eyes. His parents discovered that
albinism is a rare condition that is not always well
He added:
understood, however from Milo’s first appointment
Diagnostic hubs are now a
at Moorfields at 16 months old they felt supported.
major part of ophthalmology
He had genetic testing which confirmed his severe
service provision.
sight loss in both eyes, and this has led to him
receiving the support he needs.
Dr Peter Bloomfield, director
Moorfields has given us
of grants and research at
Layla, Milo’s mother said,
the charity, noted the value
confidence in the medical team working with Milo,
in bringing donors and
they understand albinism and what Milo needs.
researchers together, saying:
They are guiding us to know how to support Milo
to go and thrive.
These breakfast briefings
enable supporters to see first-
Milo is now seen at Moorfields twice a year, wears
hand how their generosity
glasses, started cane training and has completed
is funding discoveries,
grade one braille. He finds that the light on bright
enhancing patient care and
days can hurt his eyes, however he is resilient and
driving breakthroughs that
adaptable. He also models for a company who only
could transform the lives of
work with people with visible differences. This has
people with sight loss
led to the opportunity of working with high street
and prevent the development
brands and inspiring other children with albinism.
of conditions.
Layla, Milo’s mother said,
He has developed
lots of confidence advocating for himself. He
understands his disability and knows he is
different to his friends, but he is proud of that.
Through our partnership with the Medical
Research Foundation, Moorfields Eye Charity is
helping to advance research into ocular albinism.
One of the 11 research projects is led by Dr
Helena Lee at the University of Southampton.
Her research is investigating vision loss linked to
albinism and exploring whether a molecule called
pigment epithelial derived growth factor could
help restore vision.
Dr Peter Bloomfield
We are grateful to the generous donors whose
support made this work possible.
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