Hannah Pascoe had to learn basic skills all over again when losing eyesight – now she is a para-athlete and mother

“If it wasn’t for losing my full sight, I probably wouldn’t have achieved the things that I have achieved” para-athlete, Hannah Pascoe says.

Hannah was born with congenital glaucoma, which was operated on when she was only a few days old. It is a rare genetic eye condition that effects the optic nerve of the eye. She has been a member of Blind Low Vision NZ since she was a baby.

Hannah had functioning, but partial, eyesight up until the age of 25. By that point, her retina detached and she became totally blind with no light perception.

Hannah says “I had to learn about mobility all over again”

With the help of Blind Low Vision NZ, Hannah learnt how to use a cane to get from A to B. Eventually, she was given a Guide Dog, which she says changed her life.

She’s had two so far, Cora and Dara.

“They’ve done the job, but in two different ways because I was doing one thing when I had Cora and now I’m doing something completely different with Dara. So, they’re both my life, in different ways” Hannah recalls.

Since becoming totally blind, a whole new world of opportunities opened up for Hannah. She was in the New Zealand team at the UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships in Brazil 2018, where she came 5^th in the world.

She’s also participated in 16 marathons, including the New York Marathon, and two half Ironman events, and she’s completed the Westpac Chopper bike ride from Queenstown to Invercargill three times.

Hannah is now one of New Zealand’s most renowned para-athletes and is living proof that being blind doesn’t mean you can’t aim high and dream big.

On top of all her sporting achievements and success, her biggest role has been becoming mother to her son, Max. With the help of her partner, Nick, it was a real team effort in navigating how to take care of Max as first-time parents.

Being blind doesn’t faze Hannah at all when taking care of Max.

“A lot of the challenges that I faced weren’t too much different to any other mums”

Hannah’s Guide Dog, Dara, is an important member of Hannah and Max’s daily life. All three go for walks every day. Dara gives Hannah comfort, knowing that she will keep her and Max safe.

Hannah says she was shy before losing her sight. Becoming blind gave her a nudge to come out of her shell as she began doing more things.