Overcoming the Odds with Former Dancing with the Stars Contestant, Paralympic Skier Danelle Umstead

At the age of 13, Danelle Umstead was diagnosed with an inherited retinal disease (IRD)—retinitis pigmentosa (RP), a rare genetic eye condition that involves the breakdown and loss of cells in the retina. The condition means she has no central vision and is losing her peripheral vision.

Danelle recently underwent genetic testing to identify what was causing her blindness. She hopes that through her own experience, she can motivate others to seek testing to get their genetic diagnosis. As part of the initiative, there are a number of resources available, including a free genetic testing kit that HCPs can access on behalf of their patients.

Danelle joins host Lisa Davis to talk about the importance of genetic testing and why she encourages patients to take action.