Vista offers services for people with sight loss of all ages. From rehabilitation and mobility training, to social groups and children’s activities, there is a wide range of support available.

Georgina, 32, was born with Aniridia, meaning that her iris is missing in both eyes. She said “Aniridia can involve a variety of conditions, and when I developed Glaucoma as a teenager, my sight deteriorated.”

Georgina was still able to see shapes and colours, however she then became pregnant in her late 20s - “It was a bit of a surprise – I was no longer able to take my medication, and so I lost the rest of my sight during the pregnancy.”

Her daughter, Sophie, was also born with the condition. Georgina said “When my husband saw her open her eyes for the first time, he just knew.”

“Part of me felt devastated because I know how difficult her life might be, but I was determined to make sure that her condition wasn’t going to affect her life as much as it has affected mine.”

Paula, Vista’s Family Support Officer, contacted the family and provided information about the support Vista could offer. Georgina said “We started to attend Stay & Play sensory sessions, which Sophie really enjoys. She’s made good friends with other children who she can relate to.”

In addition, Vista’s Rehabilitation Team support the pair with training. Georgina said “Whenever I would get my cane out, Sophie wanted to use it! We now go to mobility sessions together, teaching her how to use her own cane.”

“The team also provide support at home – I used to do lots of cooking, but lost my confidence when I lost my sight. Vista has helped rebuild my confidence through using new techniques and daily living equipment.”

Vista’s support has had a very positive impact on the family. Georgina said “As a parent with no sight, raising a child has been my biggest challenge yet. However, we are always finding different ways to solve problems together every day.”

“Sophie understands that her eyes are poorly, but with the right support, she is capable of achieving anything.”