I live with Ushers Syndrome. At the age of five, I was diagnosed with profound hearing loss and started wearing hearing aids. I was fortunate that I had taught myself to lip-read while still young. Together with my hearing aids, this made it possible for me to navigate life smoothly despite the many challenges. I have always resorted to humour and pragmatism when dealt with challenges. However, thirty-six years later, when I was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) it took me awhile to accept yet another “disability” especially with the constant fear of eventually losing my eyesight altogether. I now had a choice to make – choose to become a victim and give up on life. Or, be proactive, accept my latest disability and do something about it.

Through advice from Retina SA, I contacted SA Guide Dogs and underwent orientation and mobility training to use a white cane. My white cane is now my BFF! Living with Ushers Syndrome isn’t easy. But I live a full life running my own transformational life coaching business and writing as a freelance copywriter.

I have a wonderful partner who supports me all the way and we’re proud parents to our adorable rescue dog!

When it comes down to living with a combination of deafness and progressive vision loss, it’s about making the right choice. And, I am grateful I chose LIFE.