X-Linked Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is a genetic disorder that primarily affects males, as it is caused by mutations in genes located on the X chromosome – meaning that females are usually carriers of the mutated gene but do not typically exhibit symptoms themselves. The condition leads to progressive degeneration of the light-sensitive cells in the retina, eventually causing vision loss and potentially blindness. Symptoms of X-Linked RP typically begin in childhood or early adulthood and worsen over time, leading to tunnel vision, difficulty seeing at night, and eventual loss of central vision.

Finding Inspiration on my Personal Journey 

My sight loss had been gradual and stable until I hit my 40s and COVID struck. The loss of sight became very rapid and unpredictable. I am now classified as Severely Sight Impaired (used to be classified as legally blind) and I also have permanent floaters across my central vision. Oddly, the floaters remain even when my eyes are shut! Researchers are actively studying potential treatments for X-Linked RP, including gene therapy and stem cell therapy, in hopes of finding a cure for this progressive and debilitating disease.

Living with RP can present unique challenges, as it diminishes my vision and impacts daily life in various ways. However, it’s important to remember that having a disability does not define a person’s capabilities or limit their potential for success.

The Impact of the Paralympics

If I rewind to the London 2012 Paralympic Games, being in the stadium to witness Abdellatif Baka from Algeria win the 5000m run absolutely blew my mind. He ran 5km with his guide in 15:26 – that’s faster than most runners can ever dream of running.

Fast forward to the present day and I am the proud owner of 2 bronze medals from the British Triathlon Paratriathlon Championships in 2023 and 2024. I am in the same race category (VI: which is for visually impaired and blind athletes) as an athlete called Dave Ellis. Dave and his guide Luke Pollard are heading to Paris in September to represent Team GB. Dave and Luke ran the 5km part of the British Championship triathlon in 15:11 this year! To put this in perspective, Dave and Luke swam 750m and cycled 20 kms before running a faster 5km than I witnessed in London in 2012. Absolutely amazing. And they have gone faster than that, breaking 15 minutes in the past.

Getting Active

I am nowhere near that level of athlete. I am what you would call a weekend warrior. I work hard during the week, I train hard, and I race at the weekends where I can. But, my contribution to paratriathlon is to use any opportunity I can to encourage people with RP, blindness, or disability to get into sport or just be more active. My channel, Blind Focus, is a place for people to learn more about RP, blindness, disability, and awareness of how sight loss looks in real life. Some videos are informative, some are about my journey through life, and others are about my sport. It’s not just for people with sight loss. In fact, many people that engage with my content have no disability. They find other positives in the message I’m putting out to the world. You can also follow Rob on Instagram

Looking Forward to the 2024 Paris Paralympics

From August 28th to September 8th, 2024, something very special is happening: the 2024 Paris Paralympics. It provides a platform for disabled athletes from around the world to showcase their incredible talent, determination, and resilience. These athletes have overcome significant obstacles to compete at the highest level of their sport, proving that disabilities do not have to be a barrier to achieving greatness.

For individuals with disabilities, watching the Paralympics can be a source of inspiration and empowerment. Seeing athletes with disabilities excel in their chosen sports can instil a sense of hope and motivation, reminding us that our own dreams and aspirations are within our reach. The Paralympics serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusivity and diversity in sports and society as a whole. By celebrating the abilities and achievements of disabled athletes, the Paralympics challenge stereotypes and help promote a more inclusive and accepting world for people of all abilities.

So, whether you have RP like me, or any other disability, take heart in the stories of perseverance and triumph that the 2024 Paris Paralympics will undoubtedly showcase. Let these athletes inspire you to push past your own limitations, embrace your unique strengths, and pursue your dreams with unwavering determination. After all, as the Paralympics show us, disability is not a barrier to greatness -it’s a catalyst for it.