As many of our families & friends already know my only daughter, Louisha currently 15, is registered blind with no light perception.

Her visual impairment was not noticed at the time of the birth, however shortly after coming home, it was clear that something was not quite right with her visual movements.

Specialist referrals were made, which was the beginning of many visits and tests at various hospitals, all the while hoping for a positive outcome.

Eventually, at 9 months old Louisha was finally diagnosed with Septo Optic Dysplasia, which was news far from what I had hoped for and also took a long time to digest and come to terms with.

When Louisha started school, we were introduced to Blatchington Court Trust who in turn connected us with Look Sussex, both charities have been a huge blessing to us throughout Louisha’s life in so many ways, we will be forever grateful.

l particularly admired all of the trustees at Look Sussex, who were all parents of a VI/Blind child working completely voluntarily, in their spare time.

They worked tirelessly providing support and various family outings completely free of charge, naturally, I wanted to help support them in return and soon found myself working more and more closely with the team from 2012.

Soon after I was elected as charity secretary and trustee, where I have been ever since. I have very much enjoyed being a part of such a wonderful small charity that brings families together, to share experiences, build in confidence and generally learn and laugh with one another.