A toddler from Salem, Oregon, underwent a life-changing surgery to address droopy eyelids, a condition she had since birth.
Lily Etherton, a two-year-old, was diagnosed with blepharophimosis ptosis epicanthus inversus syndrome (BPES), which restricted her ability to fully open her eyes, as reported by SWNS.
According to Lily’s parents, Ashley and Erik Etherton, her condition posed challenges as she grew older. Lily often experienced falls and bumps due to her impaired vision and struggled with bruises and injuries, Ashley Etherton explained to SWNS.
Recognizing the potential developmental and vision-related issues, Lily’s parents decided to pursue surgery to correct her eyelids’ drooping. Ashley Etherton emphasized the importance of addressing the issue promptly, given its potential impact on Lily’s growth and development.
In September 2023, the Ethertons consulted with Dr. Ramon Medel, an orbital and lacrimal surgery specialist based in Spain, regarding Lily’s condition. Dr. Medel proposed a non-FDA approved surgical procedure to improve Lily’s vision, prompting the family to travel to Spain for the operation.
The surgery, which came at a significant cost, was funded entirely by the Ethertons through fundraising efforts. Ashley Etherton devoted considerable time and effort to raise funds for Lily’s surgery, organizing various activities and sharing Lily’s story with the community.
Through their fundraising endeavors, the Ethertons successfully raised approximately $32,000, covering the surgery expenses, travel costs, and accommodations in Spain, according to SWNS.
Following the successful surgery, Lily’s parents noticed remarkable improvements in her demeanor and vision. Ashley Etherton described Lily as being more lively and energetic, expressing joy at her daughter’s newfound ability to explore her surroundings freely.
Furthermore, Lily’s communication skills have flourished since the surgery, allowing her to engage more actively with her environment. Ashley Etherton highlighted Lily’s enhanced vision, which now enables her to see more clearly and navigate her surroundings with greater ease.
Moreover, the surgery enabled Lily to produce tears, a function she was unable to perform previously due to constricted tear ducts. Ashley Etherton expressed pride in Lily’s resilience and progress, emphasizing her daughter’s remarkable recovery.
Looking ahead, the Ethertons plan to allocate the remaining funds raised to support Dr. Medel’s efforts to seek FDA approval for the surgical procedure that transformed Lily’s life.
Fox News Digital reached out to Dr. Medel for additional insights and updates on Lily’s progress.
In sharing Lily’s journey on TikTok, Ashley Etherton expressed gratitude for the surgery’s positive impact on Lily’s vision and overall well-being. She emphasized the importance of preserving Lily’s vision and enabling her to experience the world fully.
