Prevent Blindness Wisconsin is proud to announce 6-year-old Dawson as our 2026 Vision Screening Ambassador. Dawson is a creative, energetic soon-to-be first grader who loves painting and drawing, playing hockey, riding scooters, playing Nintendo Switch, and spending time with his dog, Poppy, and cat, Sofie. He proudly wears his favorite black glasses with blue accents every day.
Dawson’s journey highlights the life-changing impact of early vision screenings and the importance of timely eye exams following a vision screening referral.
Dawson was first identified with a vision concern during a vision screening at age four at Glendale Heights Childcare Center, when results showed he was struggling to see out of his left eye. Because Dawson adapted so well using his stronger eye, his family had no idea he was experiencing vision loss in one eye. When his mom asked him about it, he explained simply, “Yes mom, this is my seeing eye and this is my non-seeing eye.”
Following the initial vision screening referral, Dawson’s family encountered some of the shared challenges many families face when navigating follow-up vision care, including delays in scheduling eye exams for young children and varying guidance around vision screening results and next steps within the broader healthcare system.
After not passing a second Prevent Blindness Wisconsin vision screening at age five, his family continued seeking answers and additional evaluation. Dawson was eventually diagnosed with amblyopia, commonly known as “lazy eye,” in his left eye and is now receiving treatment.
Since starting treatment and wearing glasses, Dawson’s family and teachers have noticed meaningful changes. His teacher shared that before glasses, he was having difficulty with letter sounds in the classroom. Since beginning care, he has shown steady improvement in both learning and confidence. At home, his family has also seen everyday progress, including improved coordination—Dawson can now catch a ball more easily when playing catch with his dad.
“Vision screenings are so important,” said Dawson’s mother, Monica. “If Dawson hadn’t gotten a second vision screening a year later, we may not have continued pushing for answers. Dawson adapted so well that we had no idea how much he wasn’t seeing.”
As PBW’s 2026 Vision Screening Ambassador, Dawson’s story serves as a reminder that many children may not realize they have a vision problem, making routine vision screenings and timely follow-up eye exams critical for healthy vision development and success in school and daily life.
