When Cheyanne looks at her son Hugo she sees resilience, courage and determination. Born prematurely, Hugo was later diagnosed with Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI) after years of uncertainty and unexplained symptoms including uncontrolled eye movements. For Cheyanne and her family the journey to understanding Hugo’s sight loss has been long and often overwhelming. But one constant has been the support they found through OpenSight, Hampshire’s sight loss charity.
“This is where OpenSight stepped in” Cheyanne explained. “They provide family groups and activities for children with visual loss or impairment. We were able to meet new parents and families going through the same struggles as us learning to understand sight loss. As a parent, I’ll do anything possible to educate myself about my child’s condition and I’ve always had them to talk to when I needed support.”
Through family days out, practical guidance and a safe space to connect with others in similar situations OpenSight has given Hugo and his family opportunities and experiences they say they will treasure forever.
Now, Cheyanne is determined to give back. On Sunday 14 September she will take on a daunting abseil challenge to raise vital funds and awareness for the charity that has been a lifeline for her family.
“To be honest, I’m absolutely terrified about this abseil,” she admitted, “but I’ll do anything to support my son and the people around him. OpenSight has supported us through some very hard times.”
Cheyanne also wants the challenge to spark wider conversations about inclusion and education.
“Sight loss and visual impairments are more common than many people think,” she said. “I never imagined I’d have to adapt my life this way, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. If I could say anything, it would be for people to educate themselves more and for the world to be inclusive for everyone. Not everyone has the support network Hugo does, and that’s why groups like OpenSight need to continue. Raising money helps keep these groups going but awareness and education are things money can’t buy.”
Cheyanne’s abseil will not only challenge her fears but also shine a light on the importance of community, understanding, and the vital work OpenSight continues to do across Hampshire.
To show Cheyanne support donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/cheyanne-camburn-1?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL
