In 2012, Patricia Williams, a mother of four from Utah, welcomed her second son, Redd, into the world. Born with striking white hair and bright blue eyes, Redd’s unique appearance initially didn’t raise concerns, as Patricia, her husband Dale, and their eldest son Gage all had blonde hair. However, when Redd was about two months old, Patricia noticed his eyes moving side to side—a condition known as nystagmus. After researching online, the couple discovered that this could be a sign of albinism, a term unfamiliar to Patricia at the time.

Consultations with specialists confirmed that Redd had Oculocutaneous Albinism Type 1 (OCA1), a rare genetic condition affecting pigmentation in the skin, hair, and eyes.

Adjusting to Redd’s needs, the family adapted their lifestyle to accommodate his sensitivity to sunlight and vision challenges. They scheduled outdoor activities during cooler hours and ensured Redd wore protective gear. Their journey took another turn in 2018 with the birth of their son Rockwell, who also had albinism. While they were more prepared this time, they were unprepared for the online trolling that followed when Rockwell’s photos were turned into memes. Initially attempting to have the images removed, they eventually focused on raising awareness about albinism to combat ignorance and bullying.

Patricia became an advocate, sharing her family’s experiences to educate others about albinism. She addressed misconceptions, such as the belief that individuals with albinism have red eyes, clarifying that their eyes are typically light blue and may appear red in certain lighting due to the lack of pigment. She also highlighted the importance of understanding and acceptance, noting that albinism does not affect mental abilities.

Redd underwent surgery to correct his strabismus, significantly improving his vision. He transitioned from a school for visually impaired children to a public school, where he thrived. His peers recognized his need for sun protection but otherwise treated him like any other child. Rockwell also flourished, with Patricia sharing joyful moments from his school events on social media, receiving positive responses from the community.

Through their journey, the Williams family has demonstrated resilience and the power of education in fostering understanding. Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing differences and advocating for inclusivity.