Danny Powell was diagnosed with Ocular Melanoma in August 2021 and felt fortunate to live near Duke where he received plaque brachytherapy. However, after genetic testing revealed a mutation that could affect the course of his disease, he was referred to NIH to participate in a clinical study. That meant an expensive trip from Timberlake, NC to Bethesda, MD that felt out of reach, Danny says, until he learned about the Eye on Grace Foundation.

“It was a true blessing. It would have been almost impossible for us to take that trip without help from Eye on Grace. I have excellent doctors here at Duke, which is near my home, but they are not experienced in my particular genetic circumstances,” he says.

Danny’s grandmother died from Ocular Melanoma that metastasized to her liver. Now doctors at NIH are testing his young sons, ages 23 and 15, because they are considered high risk for the gene mutation. Early intervention could be key for their long-term health. Danny is grateful for this early attention, and for the unfailing love and support of his wife throughout his treatment.

“I wish there was greater awareness about this disease and that it received more exposure and funding. I’m always encouraging people to get a dilated eye exam every year, even if they don’t need vision correction,” Danny says.