Ermias joined the Know The Glow team in August 2025 as the Ethiopia Ambassador. His journey with retinoblastoma began when his son, Bisrat, was diagnosed with bilateral retinoblastoma at just three months old. Bisrat’s grandparents first noticed that he wasn’t tracking eye movements and insisted that he be taken for a check-up. The medical professionals reassured the family that he was fine and that things would improve with time. However, his grandmother pressed further, urging a visit to an eye clinic. This led them to Menelik II Hospital in Addis Ababa, where Bisrat was diagnosed with bilateral retinoblastoma, a condition neither parent had ever heard of.
At that time, the only treatment option available in Ethiopia was the removal of both eyes. After searching for alternatives in neighboring countries, the family traveled to Kenyatta National Hospital in Kenya under the care of Dr. Kahaki Kimani. Following three rounds of chemotherapy, it became clear that Bisrat’s tumors were too advanced to preserve his sight, and the focus shifted to saving his life. Both of Bisrat’s eyes were enucleated, and fortunately, tests confirmed the cancer had not spread.
Today, Bisrat is a thriving teenager. He excels in school, reads and writes in Braille, rides a bike, speaks both English and German, plays musical instruments, plays football, and PlayStation games.
Ermias closely works with Menelik II Hospital Eye unit, particularly with Dr. Sadik Sherief (pediatric ophthalmologist) to consult and share experience for parents whose children were diagnosed with retinoblastoma. Ermias also took part in the preparation of the ‘Ethiopian National Retinoblastoma Guidelines for Care’ document which is published in a journal.
Ermias lives in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. In 2024 he completed his PhD in Special Needs & Inclusive Education from Addis Ababa University. His PhD research was on the education of students with visual impairment in inclusive education settings. He was excited to become a KTG Ambassador and aspires to create a bright future for children with retinoblastoma, while also working hard to prevent childhood blindness from curable causes through awareness and early detection.
