Former football star Michael Owen has openly shared his heartfelt sentiment, expressing his willingness to “swap eyes” with his visually impaired son, James, who was diagnosed with Stargardt disease at the tender age of eight. 

In an interview on the BBC’s Access All podcast, Owen revealed the profound impact of James’s initial diagnosis, describing it as a “hammer blow” as a parent.

Reflecting on the challenges, Owen shared his concerns about James’s future, stating, “Will he be able to drive? Will he be able to work? What jobs will there be for him? These things run through your mind.” 

He also conveyed his willingness to go to great lengths for his son, saying, “I would pay every cent” and “walk the other end of the world” to alleviate James’s condition and “take [his] pain away.”

James, now 17, described the condition, explaining how Stargardt disease affects his vision, particularly with details like colors and lights. 

Despite the hurdles, he maintained a positive outlook, stating, “When people meet me, they wouldn’t think I have a visual impairment… It’s something I live with, to be honest.”

Michael Owen praised James’s resilience, emphasizing his mental strength and positive mindset. Owen expressed confidence in James’s future, saying, “He’s mentally strong and positive about things, and has a great mindset. His condition won’t stop him.”

While football is a significant legacy in the Owen family, with Michael’s illustrious career and James’s grandfather, Terry Owen, having played for Everton and Chester, James acknowledged the limitations imposed by Stargardt on his football aspirations. 

In a lighthearted moment, James shared a futsal experience for a documentary, saying, “I know there was some point [while playing] where I got megged [ball through the legs] and scored an own goal from it. It was not a great moment.”

Looking ahead, James has shifted his focus to business aspirations, aiming to be a business owner. 

Michael Owen jokingly projected a familial succession, saying, “When I retire from work in 30 years or something, he’ll probably take over the ‘family empire’.”