Renowned as one of the 19th century's greatest hymn writers and lyricists, Fanny Crosby was the victim of grave misfortune during her infancy. As a baby only a few weeks old, her eyes became inflamed - the doctor visited by her family suggested a procedure to alleviate the symptoms, but it was a failure: Fanny became completely and permanently blind. Despite this grave loss of sight, the young Fanny proved a bright child and a capable student. In particular she had a gift for words and was markedly devoted to the Christian Lord. These two attributes would soon characterize her rise to renown; as well as publishing well-received and celebrated hymns, Fanny was diligent in accomplishing mission work far from home.