When Michelle Saaiman noticed something strange in her 16-month-old son Juwan’s eye, she assumed it was a common infection. But when antibiotics didn’t help, doctors revealed something shocking — herpes simplex virus (HSV) had infected his cornea, likely from a kiss by someone with a cold sore.

The virus caused severe damage. Juwan lost vision in the affected eye, which developed a painful hole. Desperate to save it, the family flew to Cape Town for emergency surgery. His eyelids were stitched closed temporarily, and a nerve transfer surgery is planned in April.

Michelle was heartbroken but determined to raise awareness. “Kisses come from love,” she said, “but they can carry serious risks for young children.”

She’s since shared their story online, and the community has rallied around them. Through pain and uncertainty, Juwan continues to smile — a symbol of resilience and a reminder to protect our littlest ones from hidden dangers.