Not long ago, I threw out the question of whether kids with retinoblastoma had more determination than others. You can read that blog here

Well, I found another heart-warming story – this time from my own backyard, Australia – that proves my theory about retinoblastoma.

Five-year-old Melbournian Tyler Fishlock is jumping out of his skin right now because day one of school is fast approaching. But as the Sunday Herald Sun reports, the contents of his school bag will be quite different to his classmates’.

Tyler lost both eyes to retinoblastoma. But his total blindness hasn’t slowed him down one bit.

Tyler has already explored his new school with the assistance of guide dogs, is practising with a white cane and has a braille computer. He’s all set for school and he’s ready to go right now. It must be hard for his parents to explain that the holidays aren’t over yet!

Tyler’s parents are understandably worried about how he will manage at school, and whether the other kids will accept him. No parent wants their child to be teased, bullied or left out in the cold. And the fear is that Tyler’s disability makes him more susceptible to this sort of treatment.

But my feeling is that Tyler will have lots of friends. Kids these days are more accepting of disability. Young kids in particular take these things in their stride.

And Tyler’s got a powerful tool on his side.

His total acceptance of his disability can only have a positive effect on his classmates and teachers alike. He just gets on with it and doesn’t let anything stand in his way. He’s already told his Mum that he won’t miss her because he’ll see her after school.

I’m sure Mr and Mrs Fishlock will have tears in their eyes when they see Tyler off on his first day at school. But those tears will turn into huge smiles when Tyler comes bouncing home full of the day’s events.

Tyler is just another stunning example of how kids with retinoblastoma possess incredible determination. Good on you Tyler! You are an inspiration.

Read Tyler’s story and check out the gorgeous photo.

If you are a parent of a child with retinoblastoma who is attending a mainstream school, I’d love to hear your story. Please just drop me a line. Your experience can help other parents.