Latest News
In the news: The Himalayan Times
I am thrilled to be featured in the Himalayan Times as the first deafblind person to summit Mera Peak! I climbed a 6,476-metre mountain, as part of my Everest summit training and guided by Susan Thapa and Mingma Tenzing Sherpa, who will also serve as my guides for Everest.
In the news: Beginning my expedition to Mera Peak
It’s my 5th major training milestone on the journey to summiting Everest in 2026. This is an opportunity to test my endurance, refine fundamental mountaineering skills, and build rapport with my two experienced guides.
In the report: John Muir Trust grant
I would like to express my sincere thanks to The John Muir Trust for awarding me the Des Rubens and Bill Wallace Grant earlier this year. This generous support enabled me to complete a winter skills course in Scotland, which has been instrumental in preparing me for future expeditions, including the Mera Peak this November. Click here to read the full report.
In the Issue 517, published on 30th August 2024. First feature in the magazine! Click here to read it
Webinar: Empowering young adults with inherited sight loss
Hosted by Retina UK’s James Clarke and Aysha Ahmed, this session features inspiring conversations with three young adults, including myself, who have turned challenges into triumphs. Tune in here to hear our stories, learn about exciting future plans, and discover the power of peer support.
4th training milestone : The National 3 Peaks in 24 hours challenge
This challenge was the toughest yet, with many ups and downs. But as someone whispered, it probably turned out into a better story. Filled with so many sweet moments, it’s going to be a one memorable milestone!
Many thanks for the support from:
Click here to read the blog on my experience, or below for press articles.
In the podcast: The Kindness Café
Join hosts Hayley, Ross, and Annie as they engage in our discussion about my preparation for becoming the first DeafBlind person to summit Mount Everest.
In this episode, we delve into my journey, from my diagnosis of Usher syndrome to my recent mountaineering feats. Tune in here for insights into my mission to change perceptions and inspire others with my determination and resilience.
In the blog: Passenger
“Escapism, to me, is not about fleeing from reality, but rather it's about embracing the moments life offers. It's immersing myself entirely in the present, savouring each experience, no matter how monumental or mundane, every sensation, whether joyful or challenging. These are the moments I treasure, knowing they'll be revisited in my memories, time and time again. Whether navigating the fragility of old age, confronting adversity like complete deafblindness, or encountering unexpected trials, all these moments will continue to serve as my 'escape', offering solace and guidance through life's shadows and into the luminous realm of possibility and resilience.”
Click here to read more.
In the news: London Marathon
My third training milestone successfully achieved. Between offline and online collections, it has been raised £516 for the Guide Dogs charity so far. Huge thanks to those who donated!
Sky News: My first appearance on TV
Through connections within my community and research for my PhD, I have encountered a number of individuals unsure if they qualify for a guide dog despite clearly needing that help. My hope that appearing in the media as I am with my guide dog, even if it resonates with just one person, it prompts them to reconsider their eligibility for that furry companion.
A conversation with Erik Weihenmayer
What an honour it was to connect with Erik, who is the first blind person to summit Mt. Everest! His advice & insights have equipped me for my own journey ahead as a DeafBlind climber. We talked about the importance of building a strong team, how he mastered his climbing skills as a blind person and some funny sponsor compromises! Click above to hear the full conversation.
In the news: Introduction to my journey
First article released in the press. Click the news logo to read more!
Microsoft Research Podcast: Teachable AI with Cecily Morrison & Karolina Pakėnaitė
Click here to delve deeper into my role in the Find My Things research project. I am excited to share my experience as a Citizen Designer from the unique perspective of a DeafBlind individual. Make sure to stick around until the end to catch a snippet about my Everest project!
Sponsorship: The Climbing Academy
Completed my belay fundamentals at The Arc, then got welcomed into their climbing academy for a few months, to safely master some other skills like rope handling, teamwork, and communication as a DeafBlind climber, so that I can be as efficient as possible during upcoming larger exhibitions. Thank you The Arc for the sponsorship!