For as long as she can remember, Destiny Fiaschetti has been incredibly committed to becoming a foster parent. She dreamed of providing a home for children in need, especially those who are considered to be “high-risk.” When Destiny was old enough, she pursued licensing for high-risk children, which are children who might come in large family groups, have behavioral issues, or have special needs. Just two years ago, shares Fox 13 News, Destiny received a phone call asking if she would consider being a foster parent for Luca June (“Junie”), now aged 5, who has septo-optic dysplasia, epilepsy, and autism. Destiny jumped at the chance.
At first, she shares, Junie was a bit nervous about meeting Destiny. But as soon as she began talking to him, the pair hit it off. Just about one year after Junie came to Destiny’s home, she was also able to adopt him. Now, Junie loves spending time on her farm with the animals, playing in the water, and getting to know his dog Merlot, who may eventually become his guide dog and canine companion.
Through knowing Junie, Destiny has become even more passionate about raising awareness not only about the benefits of being a foster parent but around disabilities and rare conditions. To Destiny, Junie is a prime example that disabilities and rare conditions do not have to hold someone back in life – that they are still important, loved, and can do more than many people expect.
To learn more about Destiny and Junie, take a look at her Facebook blog – “Adventures of a June Bug.”
About Septo-Optic Dysplasia
Also called optic nerve hypoplasia, septo-optic dysplasia is a rare congenital disorder which causes underdeveloped optic nerves. It also contributes to the underdevelopment of certain areas of the brain, as well as the pituitary gland. A blend of environmental and genetic causes is believed to play a role in septo-optic dysplasia development. For example, HESX1, OTX2, and SOX2 genes have all been implicated in septo-optic dysplasia. Viruses, certain medications, or blood flow disruptions may also trigger or cause this condition. Altogether, septo-optic dysplasia may cause a variety of health issues throughout the body.
Symptoms and characteristics of septo-optic dysplasia can include:
- Optic nerve hypoplasia (underdevelopment), causing impaired vision in one or both eyes
- Nystagmus (abnormal side-to-side eye movements)
- Delayed puberty
- Hormone deficiencies
- Cognitive or intellectual impairment
- Slowed growth and an unusually short stature
- Panhypopituitarism
- Genital abnormalities
- Low blood sugar
- Developmental delays
- Seizures
