In April 2024, Watford residents Darrah O’Sullivan, 28, and her fiancé, Vince Greenaway, 30, joyfully welcomed twin daughters, Maeve and Orla, born at 36 weeks. Initially, everything appeared normal until a pediatrician noticed that Maeve hadn’t opened her eyes, describing it as ‘strange’. The following day, doctors diagnosed Maeve with bilateral anophthalmia, a rare condition where a baby is born without both eyes, affecting approximately one in 100,000 infants.
Bilateral anophthalmia can result from genetic mutations, certain medications during pregnancy, or environmental exposures, though often the exact cause remains unknown. Currently, there’s no treatment to create new eyes or restore vision for those with this condition. However, early interventions can aid in the child’s development.
Despite the initial emotional turmoil, Maeve was found to have no other health issues. Her mother, Darrah, describes her as a ‘beautiful, happy, thriving little girl’. To assist in the development of her eye sockets, Maeve will receive conformers—plastic shells that promote proper growth—and, as she grows older, prosthetic eyes will be fitted.
Reflecting on their journey, Darrah emphasizes that Maeve’s blindness will never be a taboo subject in their household. The family plans to learn braille together, ensuring it becomes a natural part of their lives. They are committed to ensuring that Maeve’s condition doesn’t hinder her from achieving anything she aspires to.
In a show of support and to raise awareness for bilateral anophthalmia, Vince, along with Darrah’s sisters, Maddie and Chloe, are set to run the 2025 London Marathon on April 27, aiming to raise funds for related charities.
