When Landon’s Mom was only 18 weeks along, it was discovered that Landon had a condition called hydrocephalus.  Hydrocephalus, in the most simplest of terms, is when there is an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain.  This buildup of fluid causes the head to enlarge.   Landon’s condition was severe, so his head started to swell and enlarge until birth.

Landon’s Mom and Dad met with a numerous doctors and genetic counselors.  Some were nice, while others lacked in compassion.  In spite of many recommendations to abort, Landon was carried and delivered full term via cesarean.  It was unknown at birth if he would survive, and at what level he could function.  Two days after his birth, Landon went through brain surgery to have a shunt implanted to drain the buildup of fluid.  Two  weeks later, his shunt malfunctioned and a revision surgery had to be performed.  Since that time, he has not had any other shunt malfunctions.

The outcome of Hydrocephalus is different for every individual.  The results of the brain trauma for Landon include developmental delays, poor fine motor skills, an isolated episode of a seizure, and Cortical Visual Impairment.  Cortical Visual Impairment encompasses a variety of symptoms, but Landon has some field loss (peripherally and depth) as well as he can not see facial features well, so he primarily uses voice to identify other people. Landon attended preschool at Governor Morehead School for the Blind, which is a wonderful, supportive program.  He currently receives a host of support therapy in school and attends a smaller class to assist with his educational program.

Although Landon has Hydrocephalus, he NEVER complains about his condition nor the limitations that it has brought to him.  Landon loves to learn new things, he loves new people, and he has a unique sense of understanding the world.