When baby Redd entered the world in 2012, his parents, Patricia and Dale Williams, were filled with joy. But they also noticed something unique about their newborn: his hair was as white as snow, giving him an adorable look. However, around two months old, they observed his eyes constantly moving side to side.
Concerned, they researched his symptoms and suspected he might have albinism.
Seeking confirmation, they consulted optometrists and genetic specialists, who diagnosed Redd with Oculocutaneous Albinism Type 1 (OCA1), a rare condition affecting 1 in 17,000 individuals worldwide.
Initially, Patricia hoped Redd’s hair would darken over time, but the diagnosis confirmed his distinctive features were here to stay. In 2018, their second son, Rockwell, was born with the same condition.
Sadly, both Redd and Rockwell faced teasing and bullying at school due to their appearance. Despite their efforts to instill self-love and acceptance, Patricia and Dale were disheartened when Rockwell’s photo became a viral meme, spreading across the internet.
Turning adversity into advocacy, Patricia used her growing social media platform to raise awareness about albinism. Redd underwent eye surgery to correct his strabismus, improving his quality of life. Choosing surgery over eye patches, they aimed to minimize attention and reduce bullying.
On April 28, 2023, Patricia shared a heartwarming video of Rockwell at his school’s “Western Day,” where he received overwhelming support on social media, a stark contrast to past experiences.
Today, both Redd and Rockwell are thriving, embodying resilience and inspiring others with their journey. Spread awareness about albinism by sharing this story with your loved ones.
