Troy Eye Care is hosting its first ever “Pumpkin Patch” contest to raise awareness for childhood Amblyopia, sometimes referred to as “lazy eye.”

The eye care center is asking residents to decorate pumpkins with the inclusion of an eye patch – residents can do their own patches or get the patch from the optometry office.

“Many of these children have to wear an eye patch,” said Ashley Nelson of Troy Eye Care. “It’s seen a lot in children and these children are sometimes bullied because they have to wear an eye patch.”

Nelson said it’s important for parents and teachers to understand about the disorder because it is often correctable if caught early on.

“If you think your child is struggling, it is important to bring them in for an eye exam; this disorder is very common,” Nelson said.

Pumpkins can be dropped off at the eye care center during normal business hours through Tuesday, October 29. Winners will be announced on Wednesday, October 30 with first place receiving a $100 prize, second place $50 and third place $25.

Dr. Shanna May will also be donating to the Troy Lions Club for every pumpkin entered into the contest. The Lions Club has a focus on issues surrounding childhood vision.

The pumpkins will be displayed on the porch of the eye care center to raise awareness that it can be cool to have an eye patch.