Harlan's Journey with Coats’ Disease
Harlan’s Story: Expert Pediatric Retinal Care at Tennessee Retina
When Harlan was just 7 months old, her parents noticed something wasn’t quite right. She had been born with a slightly darker left eye, but around six months of age, that eye began to turn inward. What initially seemed minor quickly became something much more serious.
After early evaluations in Huntsville, Alabama, doctors suspected Coats’ Disease, a rare eye disorder that can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly.
Harlan was referred to Dr. Recchia, one of the very few pediatric retina specialists in the region with expertise in diagnosing and managing complex conditions like Coats’ Disease. There, her family received a confirmed diagnosis: Stage 3B Coats’ Disease.
Specialized Care for a Rare Condition
Coats’ Disease is uncommon and often requires highly specialized care—something not widely available. Tennessee Retina stands apart as one of the few practices equipped to treat pediatric retinal diseases, offering families access to advanced expertise close to home.
Under Dr. Recchia’s care, Harlan immediately began treatment focused on stabilizing her eye and preserving as much vision as possible.
Before her first birthday, she underwent three procedures, including placement of a scleral buckle. Today, her condition is stable, a significant milestone made possible through early intervention and expert management.
Her family credits not only the clinical expertise, but also the compassion and reassurance they received throughout their journey at Tennessee Retina.
Understanding Coats’ Disease
Coats’ Disease is a rare, non-hereditary eye condition that primarily affects children and typically impacts only one eye. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels in the retina leak fluid, which can lead to swelling, retinal detachment, and vision loss.
Early symptoms can be subtle—such as slight eye misalignment or color differences—making early diagnosis difficult without specialized evaluation.
That’s why access to a pediatric retinal specialist, like Dr. Recchia, is so critical for timely diagnosis and treatment.
The Role of Community and the Jack Foundation
Harlan’s journey has also highlighted the importance of community and advocacy. For families facing rare diseases, support networks can make an overwhelming experience feel more manageable.
The Jack McGovern Coats’ Disease Foundation plays a vital role in that support system—raising awareness, funding research, and connecting families impacted by this condition. Their work gives hope not only to patients like Harlan, but to the future of treatment and care.
Looking Ahead with Hope
Harlan's story underscores the importance of recognizing early signs, seeking expert treatment, and supporting advancements in rare disease research.
At Tennessee Retina, having one of the region’s few pediatric retina specialists means families like Harlan’s don’t have to travel far for world-class care. They receive not only advanced treatment, but also guidance, compassion, and hope every step of the way.
Read more of Harlan's Story: HERE
