The National Keratoconus Foundation (NKCF) and the National Down Syndrome Society have published a webinar on keratoconus and Down syndrome. John Cronin, the co-founder of John’s Crazy Socks, presented in the webinar to share his experience with keratoconus.
Keratoconus is an eye disease that affects the structure of the cornea, resulting in loss of vision. It causes a thinning and a bulging of the cornea. Keratoconus is relatively rare as it occurs in approximately one in 2,000 individuals, typically beginning in puberty and progressing into the mid-30s. However, researchers have found that as many as 30 percent of people with Down syndrome will develop keratoconus.
The webinar, entitled Keratoconus and Down Syndrome, explained how to identify keratoconus, the effects of the disease and the treatment options. The webinar featured two of the leading experts in the field: Dr. Ann Ostrovsky MD, a cornea specialist from the NYU/Langone Medical Center in New York City, and Dr. Donny Suh MD, chief of pediatric ophthalmology at Gavin Herbert Eye Institute at University of California, Irvine. John Cronin and his father, Mark X. Cronin, joined the panel to present the experience of a patient and the patient’s family.
John Cronin said, “I am so happy to do this webinar. I have keratoconus and it is sometimes scary, but I know by seeing the doctor and following the doctor’s directions, I am safe. Dr. Ann Ostrovsky helps make sure I can see.”
Taylor Young, the assistant director of the National Keratoconus Foundation declared that this was a wonderful webinar that will make a difference in many patients lives. She added, “John's story will help inspire many.”
“We hope this webinar will help others with keratoconus, especially those with Down syndrome, to recognize the signs of keratoconus and to seek treatment. Early intervention is so important, “said Mark X. Cronin.
In addition to the main webinar, John and his father Mark joined Dr. Ann Ostrovsky to record a question and answer session to complement the full webinar.
About the National Keratoconus Foundation
NKCF is the world’s oldest and largest keratoconus-focused organization, with a database of more than 25,000 patients and care providers. They are dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of keratoconus (KC) and aim to provide resources to individuals with KC. NKCF regularly communicates with the public through webinars, newsletters, and social media posts. You can learn more at their website: https://nkcf.org.
About the National Down Syndrome Society
The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is the leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome. The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations and become valued members of welcoming communities. You can learn more at their website: https://www.ndss.org.
About John’s Crazy Socks
John’s Crazy Socks was inspired by John Lee Cronin, a young man with Down syndrome, and his love of colorful and fun socks—what he calls his “crazy socks.” He and his father, Mark X. Cronin, started the company as a social enterprise with a mission to spread happiness. They spread happiness by offering the socks you can love that let you express yourself, by giving back, by creating jobs for people with differing abilities and spreading happiness.
John Cronin serves on the board of the National Down Syndrome Society.
For more information about John’s Crazy Socks, visit our webpage, Facebook page, Instagram account or YouTube channel. You can also contact us at 631-760-5625 or via email at service@johnscrazysocks.com.
