Laura and her partner embarked on a journey from South Africa to the UK, seeking new opportunities and a better quality of life. However, this transition was not without its challenges. Living with sight loss caused by Multiple Sclerosis, Laura found herself navigating a new country while also grappling with the emotional and practical difficulties of losing her vision. Yet, her resilience shone through, inspiring hope for the future.

 Diagnosed with MS in 2019, Laura began to lose her sight due to damage to the optic nerve caused by brain lesions. Though registered Severely Sight Impaired (SSI), she retains some usable vision, though blurred and unreliable, allowing her to maintain a strong sense of independence. Tasks like reading, recognising faces, or moving safely through unfamiliar environments remain daily challenges.

“When I first started losing my vision, it was devastating. I had to give up mountain biking and adventure racing—two sports I loved dearly,” Laura explains. “But I refused to let it define me.”

With unwavering determination, Laura decided to stay strong physically, emotionally, and mentally. She threw herself into powerlifting, strongman competitions, and callisthenics, refusing to let her condition define her. A firm believer in self-improvement, she has made it her life’s mission to create ‘a better version’ of herself every single day.

Discovering a Lifeline

When Laura and her partner arrived in Berkshire, she immediately began researching local resources and charities. That’s when she discovered Berkshire Vision. 

“I was blown away,” she says. “In South Africa, there’s no support like this. No charities, no access to services or networks for people with sight loss. I had never even met another person with a visual impairment before.”

She was later also referred by an optometrist following her CVI (Certificate of Vision Impairment) referral. What began as a brief online search ultimately led to a life-changing support network.

Employment Support and Purpose

One of the biggest hurdles Laura faced was finding work in a new country while managing a visual impairment. However, with the help of Berkshire Vision employability service, led by Jenna, she began to see a glimmer of hope in her situation.

“Jenna has been amazing,” Laura says. “She’s helped me navigate job applications, pointed me toward useful resources, and continues to support me as I work to re-enter the job market in a meaningful way.”

Berkshire Vision worked with Laura to understand her background, her goals, and the unique barriers she faces in the workplace. Together, they’ve built a tailored support plan to boost her confidence, expand her skills, and connect her with relevant opportunities.

“Having someone in your corner, cheering you on and helping you stay on track, makes all the difference,” she says.

Giving Back Through Volunteering

In addition to receiving support, Laura has also given back to the Berkshire Vision community through volunteering.

“It’s a cause I care deeply about, because I know first-hand how transformative this support can be,” she says. “Volunteering gives me purpose and a chance to contribute to something I believe in.”

From helping out at events to supporting fellow members, Laura’s involvement in Berkshire Vision reflects her deep commitment to community and the transformative power of mutual support.

Finding Belonging

Laura’s first activity with Berkshire Vision was a rock-climbing session. This experience stands out not just for the challenge, but for the sense of welcome and inclusion.

“Everyone was so kind and encouraging,” she recalls. “It was the first time I truly felt seen and understood. That memory will stay with me.”

Monthly meetups and group activities have helped Laura build new friendships and feel less isolated. For someone who had never met another person with sight loss before, these connections have been life-affirming.

What She Wishes People Knew

Laura is passionate about educating others about blindness and visual impairment.

“Vision is a spectrum,” she says. “Most people assume blindness looks a certain way, but every experience is different. Just because someone doesn’t look blind, doesn’t mean they don’t face daily challenges.”

She adds, “The real disability comes from a society that doesn’t accommodate differences. We are capable—we just need systems and attitudes to change.“

Looking Ahead

Laura continues to pursue employment in a field that aligns with her values and strengths, with the continued support of Berkshire Vision behind her.

“I’m not sure what the future holds, but I know I’m not facing it alone. Berkshire Vision has given me tools, confidence, and most importantly, community.”