Sonia is Mum to a unique young man. Her son Lucas is the only confirmed genetic case to be born with severe myopia, glaucoma and Stickler syndrome* (in all medical history!).
As Lucas was growing up, Sonia searched for a children’s book. She wanted one that would inform and reassure him. And help him understand that he is special. A book like this could help family members and curious strangers. But Sonia couldn’t find one.
So, what does this innovative Kiwi do? Write one herself of course. Sonia explains the book is now published after five years in the making. “I’m very excited for the book to get into the hands of our amazing families who need courage, support and inspiration!”
At the end of October, she attended the Parents of Vision Impaired NZ conference and launched the book. “I took 100 thinking I might sell 15-20, but I completely sold out” she says. “So many people are asking worldwide and eager to read it.”
Sonia launched the book at the Parents of Vision Impaired NZ conference in October 2024
The book titled ‘Lucas’s Epic Adventure’ goes through Lucas’ journey. It shows his positivity and resilience despite blindness in one eye and many surgeries on the other. And his passion for go-karts, tractors, farming and penguins!
Sonia is grateful for the support she and her family have received. She would like to acknowledge everyone who helped make this book a reality. She hopes that this book will inspire other children. And help them navigate their own eye health journey.
“I’d do anything to make the lives of other families like ours easier. We’ve had so much help so far. I really want to give back.”
Left-to-right: Sonia, Lucas and Andre Kiser excited to provide courage to families affected by glaucoma.
Glaucoma NZ General Manager Pippa Martin says “I appreciate the hours, effort, love and generosity that Sonia and many others have poured into this venture. An incredible gift to families of low vision children.”
*Stickler Syndrome is a connective tissue disorder. It leads to vision, hearing and movement difficulties.
Contact Sonia Kiser to buy your own copy of Lucas’s Epic Adventure. The book is $20 including postage and handing.