My name is Lily Bartlett and I am 16 years old. I have Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) grade 5 so I am completely blind with no light perception.

I have been blind since birth, I was born at 24 weeks at 700g. I am a long cane user and I use Braille. I am sometimes sad about not being able to see. It is difficult needing someone to describe what is happening, not being able to know who is in a room. That people sometimes ignore me or do not say who they are. It can be very difficult when people don’t realise how hard it can be with no sight at all.

I am passionate about music in all forms and I play piano and I also sing with Berkshire Youth Choir. I take part in concerts with the Choir and also the Amber Trust.

I live at home with my mum and my brother. We have 2 pet dogs and my Buddy dog Hunter who is very important to me.

My mum found out about Berkshire Vision when I was a toddler and I have been coming to activities ever since. 

I really enjoy going to Berkshire Vision events and activities organised for children and young people. The best thing is making new friends and doing new and fun activities like ice skating. As well as the regular events like the Panto.