At school

Some children's eyes don't work very well after treatment or they may have a magic/special eye now.
When you first started school or came back to school after treatment your mum or dad will probably have spoken to your teacher about how they can help you in class and how to find the best seat for you if you can't see well out of one or both of your eyes.
You might need to wear special glasses for when you do PE so that you protect your eyes. If you are starting middle or secondary school and are nervous about changing school, tell your parents how you feel.
It might be possible to put you in a class with one of your friends at your new school to make you feel a bit better.

Your magic or special eye

At school your friends may ask you about your magic/special eye. What would you like to tell them about it? Talk to mum or dad about what you would like to say and what you are happy for your friends to know. You don't have to tell them anything – it can be your secret, but sometimes it is good to know what to say if anyone asks. Here are some suggestions from other children who have a magic/special eye which you might like to try out.
  • I have two eyes, but can only see with one.
  • I have a magic/special eye that doesn't see.
  • I have two eyes but only one that moves.

Retinoblastoma (Rb)

At school some of your friends might ask about retinoblastoma or why you have to go to hospital for check ups.  You don't have to answer any questions they have but it is good to have some answers ready in case people ask you.
  • I was sick when I was little and I'm better now but I have to see the doctor for check ups sometimes.
  • My eye was sick when I was little and I had treatment for it.
  • I was sick when I was little but you can't catch the illness from me, it's not that sort of illness.
  • I fought a serious illness when I was younger and now I'm totally better.
If you want your class to know about retinoblastoma (Rb) you can ask your mum or dad to talk to them about it, or you might like to do it yourself with your teacher.  Sometimes it is easier to have a special time to talk about it with your class and answer their questions with your teacher or parents.  Your friends might ask you less questions after this.  Not everyone will want to tell their class though, so you can decide what is best for you.
Mum or dad may find this section useful too: Starting school

Other pages in this section you might like to read include:

My treatment

A brief explanation of all of the current treatments doctors may offer for children who have retinoblastoma and what is involved.

My story

Hear our younger members' accounts of how they have been affected by retinoblastoma and how they have overcome any difficulties.

Fun stuff and links

Some links to some other relevant websites you might find interesting which are designed for children.