Usher Syndrome
What is Usher Syndrome?
Usher Syndrome is a genetic condition that causes hearing loss, sight loss and sometimes balance problems. Everybody with Usher Syndrome experiences the condition in different ways. The main symptoms of Usher syndrome are hearing loss and an eye disorder called retinitis pigmentosa (RP), which affects the light sensitive area of tissue on the back of the eye (the retina).
Usher Syndrome does not necessary impact on all three vitals (vision, hearing and balance), it could be that you will be affected with one or two of the symptom, it varies from person to person.
More than 400,000 people are affected by this condition worldwide. Currently there is no cure for Usher Syndrome.
Usher Syndrome impacts three major senses in the body
Vision
The eye condition those with Usher syndrome suffer with is Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP). RP is caused by a degeneration of the cells at the back of the eye reducing the persons ability to see in dark conditions.
Hearing
Children with Usher syndrome are born with or develop hearing loss. It’s estimated that upward of 10 percent of individuals with congenital bilateral, sensorineural hearing loss have Usher syndrome.
Balance
Balance is achieved and maintained through input from your eyes, the vestibular organs in the inner ear and the sensory systems of the body, such as the skin, muscles and joints. Some people may have balance issues due to vestibular dysfunction.
Anything is possible!
Despite all of this, I was able to do things I never thought I would do. I went to different countries to learn more about my condition and share my story. I moved away from home to study abroad, I graduated and made friends who accepted my condition and didn’t treat me any less of a person. I want to raise awareness that if i can do it then everyone can do it! All it takes is the right mindset to unlock your full potential.
Don’t let your disability stop you from achieving your dreams!
Often, professionals and doctors say what will happen in the future and we find ourselves worrying what will happen to us rather than being in the present. It is normal to think about the future, however, we should live in the present and grab all the opportunities we have open to us to make a better future for ourselves.
How can I help?
You are helping. Understanding Usher Syndrome is a great step forward.
For more information about Usher Syndrome, please find the links below.
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