Maggie Sandles -Teen with Usher Type 1
My Journey with Usher Syndrome
30 MINUTES

Molly Watt – Young Adult with Type 2
My Journey with Usher Syndrome
30 MINUTES

Q&A with Maggie
30 MINUTES

Maggie Sandles 

Maggie is 17 and always up for a challenge. She doesn’t accept “no” and is now embracing the opportunities her Usher diagnosis has opened up to her, mainly (fingers crossed), a spot in the crew rowing for Australia at the Paralympics. There have been some rocky years for sure, however, mustering her own style of support has helped her navigate her way forward.

My Journey with Usher Syndrome

Join Maggie as she weaves you though her lived experience of Usher Syndrome Type 1C. Now 17, she will reflect on her early years growing up profoundly deaf and pretty wonky on her feet, and then share some of her raw and challenging years post diagnosis.

Maggie shares some pearls of wisdom regarding the way she navigated her way forward and what support was worthwhile and what was obstructive.

Molly Watt 

Molly Watt has used her life experiences as an individual with Usher syndrome to become a sort-after accessibility/ usability consultant and keynote speaker. Through the Molly Watt Trust, she and her family work to raise awareness about the condition, and also to support people with Usher syndrome by donating helpful devices. She is actively involved in the subject of inclusion to give people with Usher syndrome a voice and a platform to share their experiences. 

My Journey with Usher Syndrome 

Molly will provide valuable insight into growing up with Usher syndrome and how her experiences, both good and bad, have shaped the person she is today. She will discuss in detail the topic of accessibility, and the importance of schools, universities and workplaces being inclusive for those with disabilities. Molly will highlight the ongoing need for those with the condition to continually advocate for their required supports and accommodations. 

She is very passionate about developments in technology and will address how ongoing advances and developments in this field can be ‘game changers’ for those with Usher syndrome. Along with an increase in general awareness, as well as support and understanding from those around you, people with Usher syndrome can manage their lives successfully and independently.