Living without sight and sound is something Carleeta Manser must face each day—and she shared a moving glimpse into that life at a special event last Friday (June 20), kicking off Deafblind Awareness Week 2025.
Ms Manser, a member of Kellyville Seventh-day Adventist Church, was one of three presenters at the “Journey Without Sight or Sound” event, hosted by the Community Disability Alliance Hunter, where she serves as the Sydney Hub leader. The event was held at the NextSense centre in Macquarie Park, Sydney.
Born deaf and later diagnosed with Usher syndrome, Ms Manser eventually lost her sight. She spoke about the challenges of becoming blind—how medical professionals encouraged her to retire, believing she could no longer work as a deafblind person. But she was determined to keep going. She also reflected on the emotional impact of learning that she would one day lose her vision completely.
Today, Ms Manser supports others who are deafblind and teaches Auslan, continuing to live with resilience and purpose. She is also a member of Christian Vision and Hearing Services, an initiative of Adventist Media.
“It is inspiring to see someone who is deafblind live life with such passion and enthusiasm,” said Dr Ken Long, a fellow member of Kellyville Adventist church who also attended the event.
Other attendees included Cassie Etwell, in her new role as coordinator for Christian Vision and Hearing Services, and David and Paula Weslake from Castle Hill church, along with their daughter, Kara, who is deafblind.
As part of the event, attendees took part in a deafblind simulation experience—an immersive activity offering a powerful insight into the world of someone who is deafblind. Wearing blackout goggles and earplugs, they were led by a support person and asked to complete everyday tasks such as making a sandwich, pouring a glass of water and paying for a purchase.
“This brief immersion helped us not only become more aware of the unique challenges faced by deafblind individuals but also develop a deeper appreciation for their resilience, creativity and adaptability,” Dr Long said. “It was a humbling and enlightening reminder of the importance of inclusive design, empathetic communication and listening to those with lived experience.”
Ms Etwell described Ms Manser’s presentation as “truly inspiring”, acknowledging her “fierce determination in not letting deafblindness stop her from living her life to the full”.
“It is important for all of us to gain greater awareness of the challenges of people who live with deafblindness and other similar challenges, to better understand and accommodate these people in our church services and in our church programs,” Ms Etwell added.
Christian Vision and Hearing Services supports individuals with deafblindness, low vision, blindness, hearing impairment and deafness, and helps churches become more accessible to those with disabilities. To learn more, visit the Christian Vision & Hearing Services website, email cvhs@adventistmedia.org.au or call +61 2 9847 2296.
