We’ve asked three remarkable deafblind women to share their journeys and insights about living with a Deafblind condition, as well as their hobbies and passions. Their stories are a true inspiration.

Kelly’s Finding Strength Through Creativity: The Journey of a Deafblind Illustrator

For as long as she can remember, drawing has been a sanctuary for this inspiring Deafblind woman. As a child, she spent hours sketching, often getting into trouble for doodling during class. At just 16, she began her career as an apprentice in a cartoon studio, where she gained her skills and experience in drawing many cartoons and illustrations and having to meet tight deadlines.

However, life took a challenging turn when Kelly was diagnosed with Usher Syndrome Type 2, which threatened her passion for art. The fear of losing her abilities kept Kelly from picking up a pencil for years. Slowly, she rediscovered the joy of drawing, decided to make the most of every moment she can, to be creative.

Despite the hurdles and challenges, including losing colour perception Kelly has adapted. Honest communication with clients, practical solutions like Zoom meetings, and embracing tools like a symbol cane have empowered her to thrive in her creative business. “My biggest thing is to keep evolving, learning and to adapt.“

Art remains at the core of her identity, bringing purpose and joy to her daily life. Beyond her studio, Kelly finds fulfilment in singing with her band, visual note-taking projects, and spending time with her family.

Her advice to other Deafblind women?
“Don’t be afraid to ask for support, try something creative, and adapt to the challenges. It’s never too late to pursue your passions!”

Her story is a powerful reminder that resilience, creativity, and a supportive network can transform the toughest challenges into opportunities for growth.