Brianna spends her days making music. She taught herself to play the tin whistle, even though she can’t see the instrument in her hands. Born blind with no light perception, she represents the next generation of young people who may one day have a guide dog, thanks to the kindness of people like you.
As a generous puppy sponsor, you’re also helping provide vital services that make independence possible for people with vision loss and allow young Kiwis like Brianna to thrive. Since she was just a toddler, Blind Low Vision NZ has been there every step of the way. Here’s how your donations helped Brianna become the confident young adult she is today:
Orientation and Mobility Skills helped Brianna learn to move safely in a world that’s not designed for people with low vision.
White Cane training gave her the skills to get around confidently and independently.
Learning Braille and assistive tech turned obstacles into opportunities – school became fun, enabling her to learn and access education.
Technology Training helped Brianna master the tools she needs to live in today’s tech-driven world.
Assistive Technology, like Brianna’s Alexa, has empowered her every day – enabling her to manage appointments and tasks, helping out in the kitchen by reading recipes and setting timers, and opening up the wonderful world of reading with audiobooks from the Blind Low Vision Library.
An Adaptive Daily Living Programme taught her essential skills for living independently, from cooking to paying the bills and budgeting – all while blind.
Our Two-Year Transition Programme gave her all the tools and tech she needed to succeed in her studies at uni.
“I’m proud to be out there actually doing it.”
And she really is! Now this confident young adult is studying creative writing at uni; an amazing achievement for anyone – especially remarkable for someone with severe sight loss.
Brianna also has quite the ear for music – especially the Irish tunes she adores. She plays guitar and piano, sings in choirs, and even taught herself the tin whistle to bring her favourite jaunty jigs to life! It’s compassionate people like you who gave Brianna these wonderful opportunities and creative experiences, thank you.
“Being blind doesn’t mean my quality of life is worse. I’m leading a fulfilling life.”
Brianna shows that with the right support at the right time, young people who are blind, deafblind or have low vision can create truly meaningful lives.
Looking ahead, Brianna dreams of one day having a Guide Dog to give her more independence and companionship. Not to mention lots of licks!
“Blind Low Vision NZ had a hugely positive impact on my life.”
But we need your support to keep helping more young Kiwis like Brianna today, while training the Guide Dogs of tomorrow.
Please donate now to help more young people like Brianna.
Next :
Hmm, no more results were found, click here to return to all "Our Stories".