THE PLIGHT of a baby boy born without eyes in Co Cork has attracted international attention and offers of support for the infant have started to flood in.
It is just over a fortnight since the story of six-month-old Jacob Nowak was highlighted in the media and his Polish parents, Mariusz and Wiola Nowak, have been overwhelmed by the response.
Baby Jacob, who lives in Millstreet, Co Cork, was born with an extremely rare condition called anophthalmus. In addition to a life of blindness, Jacob must also have prosthetic eyes fitted and replaced every three months until he is six years old to ensure that his face and skull develop normally.
The cost of this treatment is estimated at about €300,000 – but his parents say it is essential as, without it, Jacob will suffer crippling and painful facial deformities.
A Cork-based musical group, The Project, has begun working on a new recording of the Labi Siffre classic Something Inside So Strongin aid of the Baby Jacob Fund. The record will be available as a download within weeks. A Facebook page, set up just 10 days ago, now has more than 3,500 supporters in more than 20 countries.
Cork jewellery designer Ann Murphy has designed a number of pieces which she is selling online through her company, AM Jewellery. Cotter Vending, a Cork vending machine supplier, is donating 10 cent every time one of its machines is used anywhere in the country. Planning is at an advanced stage for two major fundraising events in late May in Cork city.
Meanwhile, Jacob is recovering from his latest surgery in Germany. He had a minor setback following the operation in the form of a slight infection but is now due to return home later this week.
His father, Mariusz, said in Germany yesterday: “We are completely overwhelmed by the love and support for our child. My wife Wiola and I are so, so grateful to everyone. Thank you all so very much.”
