Living well and finding happiness after vision loss

In 2007, Lucy Lopez Rivera was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa. Her diagnosis did not stop her from living an active and happy life.

Lucy Lopez Rivera loves to perform on stage, she is a part of 'True Ability' a group of actors with lived experience of disability. Lucy was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a rare eye disease that affects the retina. Credit: Lucy Lopez Rivera Credit: Lucy Lopez Rivera

Key Points

• Lucy was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa in Australia.
• She was able to access support services that assisted her to perform her activities
• Her guide dog, Hazel remains with her at home

As a child, Lucy always had issues with her vision but with limited income, her parents couldn't afford to pay for a specialist. She was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa in Australia.

Through the assistance of various support services, Lucy is able to continue with her activities in the community and theatre.

"We need to move on. Live a happy life. We are very lucky here in Australia, I am very lucky to have the support of many people in and out of my home. It allows me to continue with my social life and acting," shares the 62-year-old vision-impaired actress.

“The Speak My Language program is funded by the Commonwealth Department of Social Services and is proudly delivered with SBS through a partnership with ECCNSW and all State and Territory Ethnic and Multicultural Communities' Councils across Australia.” 

LISTEN TO

'I trust myself': Disability not a hindrance in visual artist's career

SBS Filipino

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