[Missouri-l] another iowa trip Please Help.

[Linda Coccovizzo]

Hello all.  Many of your are aware that I took my girls to Iowa City a few days ago for an eye check up and some more genetic testing.  I was able to have my mom come along with me so she could also get her blood tested as well.  They said that gene therapy is a possibility within maybe the next ten years.  Also stem cells can be used to heal the retinas.  They are also considering working with artificial implants , much the same as the cochlear implant that would stimulate the retinas.  None of these options will even come close to giving the girls perfect vision, or even good vision, but the prospect of any vision peaks my curiousity.  The choices will however be theirs as to whether they want to undergo any procedures should the chance arise.  Right now all they care about is that they get to go swimming in the pool at the hotel, and play at a play place somewhere.  (grin)

I received a call from the Peeds unit at the university Thursday after we had gotten home.  They would like to do some additional testing on their eyes to see how their pupils react to different types of light.  This testing is for research purposes only.  I talked to Sarah about it and she says it's fine with her.  I have told her we would be helping other little boys and girls with LCA.  The testing is supposed to narrow things down and possibly make treatment happen more quickly.

Here's where your help comes in.  I need to fly the girls there.  I thought that would be the easiest way to go.  The expenses will be paid.  The dates I have right now are Jul. 14 and 28.  If anyone knows of airlines flying into probably Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  I don't know if I could leave from Springfield or St. Louis or Kansas City.  I will be looking into this myself, but I know some of you might have some good ideas for me, and some of the travel sites are less than easy to navigate.  and, time lately has not been my friend.  (smile)  I would appreciate any ideas anyone might have for me.

All take care,
Linda and the girls


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