Raising a newborn is a beautiful, emotional journey. But for some parents, that joy turns to uncertainty when their little one is diagnosed with vision loss.
Five year old Te Awhi’s mum, Kiri, recalls the moment she knew something wasn’t quite right with her daughter’s vision. “I knew straight away there was something not quite right with her eyes,” she said. When her fears were confirmed by the ophthalmologist, Kiri felt overwhelmed.
“It was such a big shock, and we really didn’t know what to do. There were so many emotions, but mostly, I was just really sad.”
This Christmas, your kindness can transform lives. Families like Te Awhi’s need support right now—and the earlier they receive specialist help, the better their outcomes will be. These services don’t just change childhoods; they shape futures.
Will you give a gift this Christmas to help families like Te Awhi’s?
Your generosity ensures parents receive the guidance and lived experience they need from Blind Low Vision NZ. Your support helps them understand that their child can thrive and live a bright, independent life, even with vision loss.
As soon as Te Awhi was diagnosed, her family was introduced to Nicole, an Independent Living Skills Specialist from Blind Low Vision NZ. Nicole visited weekly to help with essential milestones like sitting up, crawling, and even holding a spoon. Kiri shares, “You do take these things for granted and just think, other children are just going to pick that up through watching. She was there to help us and guide us through life with a child with a disability.”
Nicole also worked with Te Awhi on reaching for objects and exploring textures and colors. These small steps opened up a world of possibility. Nicole didn’t just help Te Awhi; she gave Kiri and her partner, Nick, the confidence and comfort they needed.
“We would have been lost without her—just guessing,” says Kiri.
Thanks to your support, children like Te Awhi learn to navigate their world with confidence. From moving around open spaces to understanding depth perception, these skills prepare them for milestones like using their first white cane. Te Awhi lovingly calls hers “Candy Cane.”
Today, Te Awhi is thriving at school, but her journey isn’t over. She’ll need continued support as she grows, and with your help, we can make sure she and other children with vision loss receive it.
Your gift ensures children with vision loss can access specialist services to learn, grow, and become confident, independent adults.
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