A deaf and blind woman takes part in Coventry’s annual golf day

A deaf and blind Warwick woman is supporting eye research with the 29th annual Golf Day in Coventry.

Warwick woman Debbie White is preparing to host the 29th annual Golf Day on July 3 at Stoneleigh Deer Park Golf Club in Coventry.

Despite facing the challenges of Usher Syndrome Type II, a rare genetic condition that causes hearing impairment and progressive vision loss, Debbie has dedicated herself to raising funds for pioneering eye research.

Debbie, 59, has already led efforts that have raised an astonishing £400,000 to support ground-breaking research into tackling sight loss.

Her commitment to the cause stems from her personal experience with Usher syndrome type II, which she shares with her younger brother.

Both began dealing with vision and hearing loss at a young age, with Debbie’s diagnosis coming at 21.

As head of the Warwickshire Fight for Sight Committee for over three decades, Debbie has been a driving force behind numerous fundraising programmes, including sky dives, bike challenges and gala dinners.

Despite the absence of a cure for her condition, Debbie remains steadfast in her determination to contribute to research that could benefit future generations facing similar challenges.

Debbie said: “It’s very hard to lose two senses, both mentally and physically, and it’s especially hard to come to terms with it at a young age.

“While I hope that my brother and I will be part of the discovery of new treatments for Usher syndrome type II, what motivates me is that I made the decision not to have children because I did not want to pass this condition on. and I want to make sure that no child in the future has to go through what we went through.”

The annual golf day, which boasts headline sponsors Topcon GB Medical and Performance Finance, usually attracts corporate and private teams for a day of golf, followed by a three-course meal, auction and prize-giving ceremony.

With a limited number of places still available, players of all levels are encouraged to take part, while Debbie welcomes support from individuals and businesses interested in sponsoring the event.