Podcasts
Retinal Realities
Retinal Realities is our new podcast platform which will be used to engage in discussions on a wide range of topics including:
• Interesting information on retinal degenerative conditions,
• Discussions on the latest and greatest assistive devices and apps which help the visually impaired,
• Conversations and stories covering science, tech, family, relationships, careers, humour, inspirational triumphs, social change and many more arears of interest.
Thank you to Roche Products (Pty) Ltd for sponsoring this wonderful series of Retinal Realities podcasts.
Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on these Podcasts is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need.
The views expressed in these podcasts do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors
EPISODE 22 – World Retina Day – Love Your Eyes – Kids – with Claudette, Victoria and Lindiwe
This year’s theme is “Love Your Eyes – Kids: Focusing on Children,” and it’s a call to action we cannot ignore.
At Retina South Africa, we’ve observed some concerning trends affecting children’s eye health that could have lasting impacts on their futures. With the explosion of screen time from devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers, the benefits of technology are clear, but so are the risks.
Tune in as we explore these vital topics and offer actionable advice to safeguard our children’s vision. Your involvement can significantly impact the eye health of future generations. Don’t miss out!
Listen on Spotify at https://bit.ly/3Ua75jF
Thank you to Roche Products (Pty) Ltd for sponsoring this wonderful series of Retinal Realities podcasts.
Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need.
EPISODE 21 – Navigating Blindness with Grace – with Leanne Hunt
“Blind people have dreams as big as sighted people, and if they have the determination and courage to pursue those dreams, why stop them?” – Leanne Hunt
Join us in this episode of the Retinal Realities Podcast as we chat with Leanne Hunt, the author of What Every Blind Person Needs You to Know. Leanne shares how her experiences with vision loss inspired her to write this insightful handbook, this handbook is designed to show families, friends and colleagues of the visually impaired how to offer support without being patronising.
Leanne is living with Stargardt’s disease, a retinal condition that progressively leads to blindness. She has self-published several books, volunteered at various non-profit organizations, pursued a master’s degree, and written on a wide range of topics. Leanne’s accomplishments are a testament to her resilience and passion.
Leanne’s book is available on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/What-Every-Blind-Person-Needs/dp/1535454504
Listen on Spotify at https://bit.ly/4dZ4bG8
EPISODE 20 – National Women’s Month – A Woman of Substance – with Mariza Jurgens
Welcome to today’s episode of our podcast! Retina South Africa is led by a management committee of eight members, including five passionate and strong women dedicated to transforming the lives of countless South Africans affected by retinal disorders. Among these inspiring women is Mariza Jurgens, the Deputy Chair of Retina South Africa, who lives with Cone Rod Dystrophy. Her life and achievements are a testament to her unwavering spirit. On National Women’s Day, August 9th, we applauded Mariza Jurgens for her recent appointment to the World Health Organisation’s advisory group on assistive technology. Mariza has been instrumental in advocating for the South African Revenue Services to make online tax filing accessible to visually impaired individuals. Listen to as we delve deeper into Mariza’s journey, her advocacy work, and the incredible impact she continues to make in the lives of many.
Listen on Spotify at https://bit.ly/4ckxJfH
EPISODE 19 – Inner Vision – A Yoga Journey beyond sight – with Claudette Medefindt
just a practice; it is a profound journey of self-discovery and healing. This journey is especially poignant for our guest, a remarkable yoga teacher who has faced the challenges of Retinitis Pigmentosa, a condition that has gradually taken her vision but never her spirit.
Through the art and discipline of yoga and mindfulness, she has found a sanctuary of peace, a source of unwavering strength, and a pathway to acceptance and joy.
Join us as we delve into her extraordinary journey, exploring how yoga has not only grounded her but also empowered her to embrace life with courage and
positivity.
Today, we celebrate the transformative power of yoga and the indomitable human spirit, exemplified by our guest Claudette Medefindt’s incredible story.
Listen on Spotify at https://bit.ly/4cBXetq
EPISODE 18 – “Green” Dreams – Bowling beyond limits – with Nicholas Dedekind
Join Retina South Africa for a day of fun and fundraising at our Bowls for Sight Day on the 28 July 2024.
For more information about the event, visit our events page at https://retinasa.org.za/events/bowls-for-sight/.
EPISODE 17 – Hope through Trials – A Stargardt’s Patient’s Perspective – with Melanie Nel
Our journey begins when Melani Nel received that life-changing call. The one that would lead her to a clinical trial for Stargardt’s disease right here in South Africa. Emotions swirled within her—disbelief, excitement, hesitation. After all, this was uncharted territory. She had never been part of a clinical trial before, and questions loomed: What impact would it have on her physical and mental well-being?
What if this trial held the key to restoring her vision? Or what if it amounted to nothing more than a hopeful experiment? The possibilities danced in her mind.
At first, a 2-year clinical trial seemed like a very long time, but the months flew by and as she was finishing up with the last tests, she was grateful to have had the opportunity to be part of medical research history. Even though this specific trial didn’t have the outcome she was hoping for, she now knows that there are researchers out there working tirelessly to find a cure for Stargardt’s and several other retinal diseases.
“Medical research isn’t a straight path; it’s a winding journey of discovery, testing, and retesting. And this trial was a beacon—a chance to contribute, to light the way for future generations of young children and teens diagnosed with Stargardt’s.”
Listen on Spotify at https://bit.ly/4c2wDFV
EPISODE 16 – THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS – with Hazel Sacharowitz
17 – 23 March is World Optometry Week, with the 23rd being World Optometry Day, the focus is on recognising the contributions of optometrists.
In today’s enlightening episode, we have the privilege of hosting Hazel Sacharowitz, a distinguished Optometrist from the Low Vision Care Centre.
Hazel has over 35 years of experience in the field of low vision including lecturing and training of the Optometry students at the University of Johannesburg. She is well known and respected in her field and has presented at numerous local and international conferences. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and remains passionate about low vision.
Tune in, listen, and let’s explore the world of low vision together. Remember, you’re not alone—we’re here to support you!
Listen on Spotify at https://bit.ly/3IIvypW or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
EPISODE 15 – BREAKING THE BLIND BOUNDARIES – with Zaheeda Saloojee
In this captivating podcast, we delve into the remarkable journey of Zaheeda Saloojee Jooma, a true embodiment of bravery and determination. Despite being diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a condition causing damage to the retina, Zaheeda defied the odds and embarked on a cycling adventure just four weeks ago as she geared up to participate in the Dis-Chem Ride for Sight.
For visually impaired individuals like Zaheeda, everyday tasks pose unique challenges, yet she refuses to let her condition hold her back. With George De Goveia as her volunteer pilot on a tandem bicycle, Zaheeda was ready to conquer the ride, putting her trust in someone else’s hands.
The feeling of pride, bravery, and facing fears head-on is palpable in Zaheeda’s story. It takes immense courage to step out of one’s comfort zone, especially when relying on another person for guidance. Yet, Zaheeda’s determination speaks volumes about her resilience and spirit.
Zaheeda’s story serves as an inspiration to us all, urging us to break barriers and embrace inclusivity in para sports. Let’s join hands in supporting initiatives like the Dis-Chem Ride for Sight which strive to create awareness and opportunities for the visually impaired and blind community.
EPISODE 14 – LIVING THE SWEET LIFE – WORLD DIABETES DAY- 14 November 2023 – with Gavin van Wyk
Today is World Diabetes Day and on the Retinal Realities Podcast, we have a special guest: Gavin van Wyk. Gavin is a SA Diabetes Advocate and a Retina SA Patient Advocate who has been living with Type 1 Diabetes for 35 years. He has experienced many challenges due to his diabetes, such as losing a lower limb and having low vision from Diabetic Retinopathy.
Join Karen and Claudette as they talk to Gavin about his inspiring story of coping with Diabetes and Vision Loss on this podcast. To find out more about Diabetic Retinopathy, you can read this article: https://sweetlife.org.za/what-is-retinopathy/
Listen on YouTube https://youtu.be/jw6FyE4L7dA
Listen on Spotify https://bit.ly/3QNSac3
EPISODE 13 – WORLD RETINA WEEEK- 24-30 September 2023 – with Claudette Medefindt & Sonya Lee Mahabeer
On the podcast today we have two dedicated women who are active members of Retina South Africa, Claudette Medefindt who has a 40-year history and Sonya Lee Mahabeer who has just recently brought her enthusiasm and energy to the organisation.
They each share their story on how they became involved in Retina South Africa and how Retina SA has helped them.
Listen to their stories on Spotify at https://bit.ly/3ZB26Kk
Listen on YouTube:
https://bit.ly/3SO680c
EPISODE 12 – NATIONAL WILLS WEEK – with Sonya Lee Mahabeer
On todays episode of the Retinal Realities Podcast we are joined by Sonya Lee Mahabeer who is an admitted attorney who is passionate about ethics, human rights, commercial law, including financial planning law, ESG and Legal Education. She is a member of Retina South Africa and is involved in the Youth and Governance Sub Committees.
EPISODE 11 – WOMEN WITH VISION – with Dr Farah Moti
EPISODE 10 – WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS – with Grant Medefindt
EPISODE 9 – CHECKMATE – with Luzuko Ngwevwla
Chess is a game of strategy and skill that requires a great deal of concentration and focus. For a visually impaired person, playing chess can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. One of the most inspiring examples of a visually impaired person playing chess is that of Luzuko Ngwevwla from Cape Town. He learned to play chess in Worcester after going blind. Despite his disability, he enjoys playing in chess tournaments in person and online via Skype.
Listen on Spotify https://bit.ly/43yJBXd
Listen on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/2C2BLho5Rm4
EPISODE 8 – BEYOND THE FINISH LINE !!! YOUTH EDITION – Hilton Langenhoven
EPISODE 7 – IF YOU CAN DREAM IT, YOU CAN ACHIEVE IT!!! YOUTH EDITION – Charlie Dyasi
“You are only disabled when you let yourself be disabled”, you are as abled as you are letting yourself and your mind be – Charlie Dyasi”
Meet Charlie Dyasi and his guide dog Billy, who are our guests on the Youth Edition podcast today. Charlie is a blind sound engineer, voice over artist, radio presenter and podcast host. He shows us how to overcome disability with determination and hard work. Charlie and Billy prove that nothing is impossible.
Listen on Spotify: https://bit.ly/3psiOxA
Listen on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/KWhaissBfYA
EPISODE 6 – INTRO INTO YOUTH EDITION – Manny Moodley & Sonya Lee Mahabeer
Retinal Realities Podcast: Youth Edition is a podcast by Retina South Africa that aims to empower, create awareness and support the youth with retinal conditions. It features interviews with young people, their families and medical professionals who share their experiences and insights. We invite the youth to interact with us on our social media platforms and suggest topics that interest them. “Empowering youth today for a brighter tomorrow”
Listen on Spotify https://bit.ly/44nW8O3
Listen on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LHQzFQTTCdA
EPISODE 5 – PAWS AT THE OFFICE – Mariza Jurgens and Dotty
Today we celebrate Bring your Dog to Work Day with Mariza Jurgens and her guide dog Dotty. Mariza is a blind accessibility advocate who works to improve information access for the disabled in South Africa. She has Cone Rod Dystrophy, a visual impairment that affects her vision. Dotty helps her with tasks such as crossing the street, avoiding obstacles and finding her way around. Dotty is trained by Guide Dogs UK and responds to Mariza’s commands and alerts. Let’s appreciate these amazing animals and their owners!
Listen on Spotify https://bit.ly/3Pvnf5o
Listen on YouTube
https://youtu.be/4hccacnHeXU
EPISODE 4 – OPEN THE LID AND CLIMB OUT – Alani Ferreira
Happy Youth Day!
This week on the Retinal Realities podcast, we have Alani Ferreira, a two-time Paralympic swimmer who has Stargardts. She is also a BCom graduate and works in Agriculture. She has a guide dog named Gatsby. She tells us how she overcame her disability and achieved her goals. She says “Don’t let your disability limit you”, people are going to try and put you into a box, but the box has a lid, open the lid and climb out.
Listen on Spotify https://bit.ly/3JDIM8v
Listen on YouTube
https://youtu.be/LHQzFQTTCdA
EPISODE 3 – WHERE THERE IS A WILL, THERE IS A WAVE – Michele McFarlane – Parasurfer
Our guest today on World Ocean Day 8 June 2023 is Michele Mc Farlane – Parasurfer.
In 2005, Michele was diagnosed with 40 degrees vision due to the deteriorating eye disease Retinitis Pigmentosa.
Two years ago, Michele did an adaptive surf clinic with the Roxy Davis Foundation and with her signature drive entered her first local competition the following year. In December 2022 Michele represented South Africa in the World Parasurfing Championships.
Listen on Spotify https://bit.ly/3P1L4l7
Listen on YouTube
https://bit.ly/40J2bMv
EPISODE 2 – TRIUMPHANT TRIATHLETE – Linsay Engelbrecht
Our guest today on World Bicycle Day 3 June 2023 is Paratriathlete Linsay Engelbrecht.
Linsay was diagnosed with Stargardts Disease – a genetic progressive eye disorder at the age of 23, but this hasn’t stopped her from achieving her goals.
Listen to her story on Spotify at https://bit.ly/45Njo9F
Listen on YouTube
https://bit.ly/46nWiW0
EPISODE 1 – SHARING YOUR STORY – Claudette Medefindt – Head of Science
PROMO FOR RETINAL REALITIES – Karen Denton
In this promo of the Retinal Realities Podcast Karen Denton Head of Advocacy and Awareness shares what listeners can expect from the Retinal Realities Podcast.https://bit.ly/47Hcgvo
Platinum Gold Radio Podcasts
Listen to the series of past chats with Claudette Medefindt (Head of Science) and Karen Denton (Head of Advocacy and Education) about eye-care, eyesight preservation, eyesight management and daily operations with impaired vision.
For more podcasts goto their website address www.platinumgoldradio.com