Give the gift of joy
For a person living with sight loss, the greatest gift this Christmas could be something that can’t be wrapped—the chance to live and grow with independence and joy.
This Christmas, we are sharing a wonderful story of how we brought those gifts to Joanna and her family.
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To listen to an audio version of our legacy appeal or get a text only format, please scroll to the bottom of this page.
Joanna's story
Joanna recalls how, when she was diagnosed with a rare sight loss condition called foveal hypoplasia, her doctor told her it meant she might never live independently. With determination and courage, Joanna refused to let that doctor be right - studying, living abroad, and building her career.
Now a mother, Joanna pours the same strength that went into proving that doctor wrong, into rewriting the story of sight loss for her children, Mathilda and Charlie.
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“My early memories of school are of being left at the back of the classroom. I’m determined my children get the education and understanding that I didn’t get”
Joanna, mother of Charlie and Mathilda
After learning her children had inherited the same condition as her, Joanna decided Mathilda and Charlie would never be forgotten or dismissed.
That’s where BWBF came in. As she explored what help was available, Joanna was delighted to learn that she and her children each qualified for our free Echo Show devices.
The result has been a new quality of life for the family. Charlie, who struggles to sleep, has found some peace at night times through soothing music. Meanwhile, the family loves asking Alexa endless questions and playing new games—turning curiosity into confidence. Everyday tasks like shopping lists or making appointments are easier. And, crucially, Joanna’s device has provided peace of mind by easily connecting her with her elderly father to ensure he is safe and well.
Your gift could help another family to live more independently and ensure sight loss will not limit their children’s future.
Will you send a gift today—so children like Mathilda and Charlie can wake up this Christmas to the gift of independence and joy?
Give the gift of joy and independence today
- £
£5 - Every gift helps provide life-changing support
Donate now£10 - Our devices can come with a set of personal headphones
Donate now£20 - BWBF gives life-long support to people living with sight loss
Donate nowWhatever you choose to give, it will bring joy and connection
Donate now- £
£30 - Our friendly team calls everyone we help to ensure they can get
Donate now£77 - Devices like those we gave Joanna's family can give connection
Donate now£231 - You could help us support a whole family living with sight loss
Donate nowAny gift you can give would make the world of difference
Donate now
Christmas Appeal 2025
Download our Christmas appeal as a large print or normal print document, or in Word format. Alternatively, listen to an audio version of the appeal.
Christmas Appeal 2025 - Christmas Appeal 2025 (Audio)
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