Look, we are just like you

06 May 2013

Despite having the odds stacked against them, the Law family won't be beaten.

Bell Post Hill siblings Jacob, 15, Kate, 13, and Nicholas, 10, have aniridia - a rare condition that stops the iris from developing.

It means they cannot regulate the amount of light that enters their eyes.

Kate, who attends Western Heights College with her older brother, said visual impairment had not stopped them from living normal and independent lives, or from chasing their dreams.

"We are just the same as everyone else, but with one little difference," Kate said. "Sometimes people don't understand we can do the same things they can."

The music and theatre lover hopes to become an actor, while Jacob plans on becoming an engineer or teacher.

Nicholas, who goes to Rollins Primary School's Batesford campus, dreams of hosting a TV game show.

Each child had a 50 per cent chance of inheriting the condition from their mum, Jayne, who was also born with it.

The three children have learnt to live independently with the help of Vision Australia, which has taught them skills so they can catch buses, cross roads and cook safely.

Jacob said he could now get around easily on public transport, but people should be mindful of those with low vision.

"If you see someone who you think might need help to cross the road or something, you should definitely ask if they are all right," he said.

Kate said she and her brothers sometimes had trouble playing sport, but gave it their best shot. Jacob even discovered a talent for lawn bowls when he tried it at school recently.

"I couldn't see what I was aiming for, but still managed to win a few games," he said.

For the Law family, it looks like the odds are back in their favour.

Source: Geelong Advertiser