Hope’s Visit With Dr. Mangan
Dr. Mangan arrived at the rescue not long after Hope and I returned from Ocala Equine Hospital on Friday. He helped us settle Hope back into her “suite.” Dr. Mangan had his absolutely wonderful children with him and we all learned quite a bit! The findings could have been better, but they could have also, been much worse. We knew Hope has dwarfism characteristics and suspected neurological issues as well. We also thought her to possibly be blind. So, here’s what we learned.
Hope has cataracts in both eyes but she can see some shadows from her left eye and a little bit more from her right eye.
She has iris hypoplasia which is the term for any condition that causes an intact iris to erode, or prevents an iris from developing properly. However, a mild improvement in visual function can occur as the result of maturation processes of the brain. This may be what causes Hope to squint and lower their head.
Dr. Mangan arrived at the rescue to assess Hope’s eyes not long after Hope and I returned from Ocala Equine Hospital yesterday.
The cataract is pretty visible.
Hope has symptoms of hydrocephalus (excess amount of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain). It can cause an up-gaze paresis with the eyes appearing to be driven downward. The lower portion of the pupil is sometimes covered by the lower eyelid and the sclera may be seen between the upper eyelid and the iris. Other symptoms of hydrocephalus can include abnormal curvature of the spine, difficulty walking, muscle fasciculations, proprioceptive deficits, blindness, diminished learning ability, skeletal abnormality, overreactive reflexes, and deformities of the limbs.
With these findings, and our team will regroup and determine a plan for Hope. For now, we will continue to pursue the procurement of the Dynasplints and provide supportive care. Only time will tell what the future holds for Hope. Please keep her in your prayers.
The other cataract.
We have high hopes for Hope and we believe in her. She’s got the right attitude and tons of determination! She doesn’t know she’s “different” and we don’t need to tell her – we love her just the way she is.
Hi Everyone, it’s me, Hope!
Mommy Theresa asked me if I would like to share some news about the Match Game! We still have $669 to go to help with the cost of my DynaSplints and follow up care. I am so excited and thankful to all my Aunties and Uncles who are helping me so that I can soon, jump and play like other baby calves!
*Please CLICK HERE if you would like to play the Match Game.*
Wishing everyone a wonderful Sunday!
Love,
Hope
