Featured VISION HERO
Meet Gracie
A Young Vision Hero with a Big Heart
VISION HERO SPOTLIGHT
Gracie’s Story
At just nine years old, Gracie is already showing the world what it means to be fearless.
Whether she’s striking out batters as the star pitcher on her softball team, skating with confidence on an all-boys ice hockey team, or solving tricky math problems just for fun, Gracie puts her whole heart into everything she does.
What makes her journey even more inspiring? She does it all while living with Exotropia Strabismus and Amblyopia, visual impairments she’s had since birth.
When she was four, Gracie underwent eye surgery that improved her vision but didn’t fully resolve her condition. She continues to face visual challenges every day, but she meets them head-on with determination and strength.
“She keeps going, even when things are harder for her than for other kids,” Michelle says, adding that her daughter’s strength inspires her. “Gracie has taught me that challenges don’t define you. If you believe in yourself, you can do anything.”
Michelle also highlights an important truth: not all visual impairments might be visible to others, but their emotional and physical toll can be profound for the child and for the family.
For Gracie, the journey hasn’t just been about medical appointments or adapting to her vision. It’s also meant learning how to navigate a world that doesn’t always understand her.
She’s experienced bullying and been treated differently because of her condition. But instead of letting that bring her down, she used those experiences to fuel her growth. She trained harder. She showed up stronger. Today, her teammates don’t see her as “the girl with vision problems.” They see a skilled, dedicated athlete who leads by example.
That same spirit shines on the ice. As one of the only girls and the only one with a visual impairment on her hockey team, Gracie doesn’t back down. Through it all, she holds close something her grandfather once told her: “You should love yourself for who you are, even when it gets rough.” It’s a message that helps guide her on the hard days and reminds her to lead with confidence, no matter what.
Now, Gracie is using her experiences to advocate for others. She hopes to be a voice for kids with visual impairments and encourages everyone to choose kindness and inclusion. Her message to others facing challenges is simple, powerful, and deeply personal: “Hey, you did it.”
To Gracie, being a Vision Hero isn’t just facing obstacles. It’s about helping others find their own strength. She believes anyone with “special eyes” has the power to be a superhero.
Looking ahead, Gracie dreams of playing Division 1 softball and one day becoming a pediatric nurse or doctor so she can help kids like her feel seen, understood, and supported.
The Vision of Children Foundation is proud to welcome Gracie into our Vision Hero Program. She’s a shining example of resilience, compassion, and the power of perseverance, and we’re honored to share her story.
Hear from all of our inspiring and remarkable Vision Heroes on our YouTube channel!
Are You A Vision Hero?
We are seeking inspiring young people who have overcome their vision challenges despite being told they have limitations that may hold them back from achieving their dreams. These remarkable Vision Heroes mentor and motivate others to persevere and reach their personal goals-whatever they may be! By spotlighting new Vision Heroes regularly, we hope to encourage young people to realize their talents and reach their full potential in life!