If you thought losing one of your five main senses would hold you back, I’m proof to the contrary. I started running 25 miles a week and had my third son after losing my sight. Don’t get me wrong – it’s been tough, but the challenges I’ve faced have made me a stronger woman and that’s what is helping me through my latest battle.
I was 19 when the optician noticed something wrong with my eyes. He referred me to hospital, where I was diagnosed with acute zonal occult outer retinopathy (AZOOR); a rare condition that gave me a 50% chance of going blind in the future. There was no family history of sight problems, and I wasn’t experiencing any symptoms. I was young and foolishly I didn’t believe I would ever actually lose my sight. I was certain I’d be in the 50% who were fine.
I lived in blissful ignorance for the next 11 years – I had my son Cameron in 2001 and when things didn’t work out with his father I carried on happily as a single mum. Regular vision tests confirmed my sight wasn’t fading, and I found a job I loved, taking lonely pensioners out on day trips.
When Cameron was seven, I met Dave and fell in love. Life was great, but when I was 30 an eye test revealed my sight had deteriorated so much that I’d have to hand back my driving licence. It was a massive shock. I hadn’t noticed any difference in my vision – I suppose you adjust to these things when they happen gradually.
Denne historien er fra April 03, 2023-utgaven av WOMAN - UK.
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Denne historien er fra April 03, 2023-utgaven av WOMAN - UK.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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The dark side to your CHRISTMAS NIGHT OUT
Do you know what’s in your glass this party season?
IS THERE ANYTHING MORE NOSTALGIC THAN CHRISTMASES PAST?
Do you remember the anticipation before the big day, pondering endlessly about what should go on your Christmas list? I would lovingly write two or three things down, pop it into an envelope and leave it by the fireplace to be wafted up the chimney like something out of Mary Poppins.
The Christmas that CHANGED OUR LIVES
We speak to three women about their most wonderful time of year
Fix a festive FALL-OUT
Had too much of a good thing? Our expert tips will help you feel better quickly
Reunited for CHRISTMAS
After his rocky TV comeback, ts Philrelying on wife Steph this holiday season?
'I don't want a THREE DAY HANGOVER'
Lorraine Kelly on how she’ll be spending her first Christmas as a grandma
Mistletoe AND WINE
All Rose wanted was a little extra sparkle at Christmas
Would you spend more ON THE DOG THAN ON YOUR HUSBAND?
Brits are happy to fork out more on their pets’ gifts than on their other half’s, according to a study. We investigate….
A new ACT OF BETRAYAL
King Charles misses Harry 'desperately' but has the trust gone, writes Emily Andrews
PRINCE ANDREW AND FERGIE ARE EXPECTED FOR CHRISTMAS!
After a tough year for William and Kate, the Waleses are looking forward to Christmas and catching up with the Royal Family – including, it seems, Prince Andrew and Sarah, Duchess of York.
