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Grace's story

Grace has the best of both worlds

When parents, Kellie and Patrick, found out their 12-week-old daughter, Grace, had Albinism – they were shocked.

Albinism is a genetic condition that often causes significant vision impairment and sensitivity to glare. This was a daunting diagnosis for Kellie and Patrick, because they are both Deaf and communicate using Australian Sign Language (Auslan).

“We were absolutely stunned and were unsure of the implications it would have for our communication with Grace.”

Soon after Grace’s birth, Kellie, herself a Teacher of the Deaf at the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children (RIDBC), organised regular home visits from the RIDBC Early Learning Program (Vision Impairment).

“RIDBC helped us understand Grace’s vision impairment and how best to set up our home to meet Grace’s needs. We use high contrast colours in our home to make objects more visible to Grace,” Kellie said.

RIDBC Speech Pathologist, Annette Clarke, also advised Kellie and Patrick about the optimal conditions for Grace to understand Auslan.

“We sign slowly and at a closer distance, and wear clothes that are not busy or brightly patterned. We also need to be aware of any glare and make sure Grace is well positioned,” Kellie said.

“ RIDBC helped us understand Grace’s vision impairment and how best to set up our home to meet Grace’s needs. We use high contrast colours in our home to make objects more visible to Grace.”

Grace, now four, enjoys swimming, dancing and most of all, going to the RIDBC VisionEd Preschool – RIDBC’s specially staffed and equipped preschool for children who are blind or vision impaired.

“Grace loves reading our large print books, doing puzzles, threading beads and playing games on the computer – all activities that will help Grace develop her language, near vision and fine motor skills,” said Glenda.

“Grace needs no coaxing to chat, but as Auslan is her home language, we also encourage her to sign and teach staff and students signs for commonly used words.”

With such comprehensive support, Kellie and Patrick are optimistic about Grace’s future.

“If only we knew at the beginning what we know now – that with right help, things can have a way of working out,” Kellie said.

Want to support programs at the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children?

You can help support programs like the RIDBC Teleschool by making a donation.

Like to know more?

If you would like to know more about the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children, its services, students or ways that you can help, visit the RIDBC website.

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