I can’t see but I can take on the Biathlon
Ever since the 41-year-old telecommunications executive was diagnosed with myopic macular degeneration in 2009, she has been robbed of her central vision. The medical condition myopic macular degeneration, usually occurs in cases of high myopia, or in laymen terms, above 600 degrees of short-sightedness.
Delia later learnt from her family eye doctor that, there is no known cure yet to her condition. On a positive note, the condition will not leave her blind. “I actually felt very angry,” Delia says, when asked if she was comforted by the assurance. “I wasn’t assured at all. In fact, I didn’t appreciate the thought that I could still see despite my partially impaired vision.
Delia has come to accept her condition now, but not after two months of “hell” after her diagnosis. Swimming became a source of motivation and Delia then decided to sign up for the Singapore Biathlon race – “not to prove myself, but to simply live my life”. “My family doctor is aware that I’ve signed up for the race and he’s been very supportive.”
While doing a biathlon race with partially impaired vision may seem dangerous, the expert opinion of Assoc Prof Chee of NUH is that Delia should in fact, continue to lead her active lifestyle. “Participation in a biathlon or triathlon (race) will not worsen the macular degeneration,” points out Assoc Prof Chee. “But if the vision is significantly reduced, cycling on the road may not be a good idea”.
Best of luck to you Delia! You are an inspiration to women everywhere! You are not allowing your Disability to DisABLE you!
You are a very special person and I would love to cover your story after the race. You really inspire ME to perform at a much higher level!