For most people, blinking and sleeping with eyes closed are simple, unconscious actions. For 7-year-old Carter Bresee from Nevada, however, these were luxuries he had never experienced until a groundbreaking surgery gave him the ability to blink and rest properly.
Carter’s journey to this life-changing moment is both heartwarming and a testament to the power of community and modern medicine.
Living with Lamellar Ichthyosis
Carter was born with lamellar ichthyosis (LI), a rare genetic skin disorder that significantly affects the way his skin functions. In individuals with LI, the body produces skin cells that cling together instead of shedding naturally, resulting in thick, brown, scaly patches on the skin.
Beyond its visible symptoms, LI can lead to a variety of complications, including severe discomfort and issues with basic functions like closing the eyes.
For Carter, LI caused his eyelids to turn outward, preventing him from blinking or closing his eyes. This left him constantly exposed to irritation, pain, and sleeplessness.
As Carter’s mother, Shai, described, “He cannot blink, he sleeps with his eyes open and is often experiencing lots of pain and discomfort because of this.”
A Community Comes Together
Despite the challenges, Carter’s story captured the hearts of many in his home state of Nevada and beyond. Thanks to media coverage, including ongoing support from Fox News, Carter gained a loyal following of supporters who rallied to help him. A turning point came earlier this year when a GoFundMe campaign was launched to raise funds for an eyelid skin graft surgery that could alleviate Carter’s condition.
The fundraiser quickly gained momentum, raising $47,600—well above the $8,000 cost of the procedure. Shai was deeply moved by the outpouring of support. “I didn’t realize what a sense of community we really had,” she shared with Fox 5. “It’s really crazy to feel so included.”
The Surgery That Changed Everything
Last month in San Diego, Carter underwent a successful oculoplastic surgery designed to reconstruct his eyelids, allowing him to close his eyes for the first time. The procedure marked the beginning of a new chapter for the young boy who had endured so much discomfort.
The results were immediate and transformative. After the surgery, Carter finally experienced what it felt like to sleep with his eyes closed—a sensation that brought both relief and joy. “He slept until noon today. He got the best night’s sleep,” Shai shared in a video interview, visibly emotional as she recounted her son’s reaction to his first restful sleep.
Carter’s resilience throughout the process was remarkable. Shai described her son as a “champ” who faced the painful procedure with calm determination, asking for medication only when absolutely necessary.
A Bright Future Ahead
Carter’s journey isn’t just a medical success story; it’s a powerful reminder of the impact that collective goodwill can have on someone’s life. The funds raised through the community not only covered the cost of his surgery but also highlighted the strength of human compassion.
Shai’s gratitude for the support they received was palpable. The experience left her feeling deeply connected to the people who contributed to her son’s improved quality of life.
While Carter will continue to manage the effects of lamellar ichthyosis, the ability to blink and sleep with his eyes closed is a monumental improvement. It allows him to experience comfort and rest he has never known before.
Hope for Others with Rare Conditions
Carter’s story serves as a beacon of hope for families facing similar struggles with rare genetic disorders. His successful surgery demonstrates the potential of modern medicine to transform lives, even in the face of complex and challenging conditions.
It also underscores the importance of community support, which can make seemingly impossible treatments a reality.
As Carter moves forward with a brighter, more comfortable future, his journey is an inspiring reminder that no challenge is insurmountable when compassion and innovation come together.
See more about Carter’s story in the video below:
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