Ashlyn, wearing a pink sweater and jeans, sits in a wooden chair beside the glass railing of a multi floored library. She has a notebook and pen on her lap and is looking out over the railing's edge.

My Future Was Still Mine

Ashlyn's journey from uncertainty to possibility

It was the evening before brain surgery. I remember a doctor telling me to enjoy all my favourite foods because there was a chance I wouldn't be here tomorrow. I was only 13 years old.

Doctors discovered a benign brain tumour growing from my brain's ventricular wall into the spinal fluid spaces. The tumour didn't take my life, but it took most of my vision.

Ashlyn sits at a table outside of a school building with a laptop, books, and notebooks. She is wearing a red jacket and sunglasses, and smiles looking at the camera.Finding a new path forward

Almost overnight, I went from planning for my future to wondering what was still possible. Would I still be able to do the things I loved? Would university still be an option? What kind of career could I have?

Thankfully, I didn’t have to face those questions alone. CNIB helped me when I needed it and showed me that my future was still mine to shape.

Through CNIB, I received a university scholarship that helped me continue my education. But it wasn't just financial support. It was a reminder that people believed in me and in my future. Today, I’m studying at the University of British Columbia with the goal of becoming a neurologist or neuroscience researcher.

Support changes everything

Education opens doors, but for students like me with sight loss, getting there can come with extra challenges and costs. The right support, from scholarships and technology training to mentorships and career opportunities help us pursue our goals with confidence.

Looking back, I remember how scared I was after losing my vision. I never could have imagined I'd become the person I am today: a confident university student who's excited about the future.

Ashlyn stands outdoors, posing against a log fence. She is smiling at the camera and resting her left arm on top of the fence. She is wearing a white athletic top and black pants

The stories still being written

When I think about my own journey, I also think about other young Canadians with sight loss who may be feeling the same uncertainty I did.

No one should have to navigate that journey alone.

I'm incredibly grateful for the support I received through CNIB. It helped me discover what was still possible and it's my hope that more young people with sight loss will have the same opportunity to build bright, fulfilling futures.

 

Help Canadians like Ashlyn take their next step

Ashlyn’s story shows what can happen when young people with sight loss have the support they need. Your gift can help more Canadians access the education, resources, and encouragement that empower them to dream big and move forward with confidence. Make your gift today.

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