A Sunshine Coast photographer with two per cent vision is pursuing his passion and challenging preconceptions about vision loss.
James Norquay, 25, lost most of his sight after being diagnosed with brain cancer at the age of 12.
Today, photography is a major part of his life, taking him from busy wedding venues to outdoor locations as he captures the moments that matter to others.
“Photography ignites a really rich spark in me,” he said.
“I love capturing images with my camera that I can’t see with my own sight. It’s the craft and the tool that gives me 101 per cent vision.”
His story has been highlighted by Guide Dogs Queensland to coincide with International White Cane Day in October.
For Mr Norquay, his white cane is an important tool for navigating unfamiliar environments and maintaining his independence while doing the work he loves.
“Having my cane means I can get out there, find my way around and focus on what I’m there to do,” he said.
“It gives me the confidence to go to new places and take on different jobs, rather than having to think twice about whether I can manage it.
“Support from Guide Dogs Queensland has also been an important part of my journey. It’s about having the right tools and support to do things in your own way and having the confidence to give things a go.
“Losing most of my sight changed a lot of things, but it hasn’t taken away the things I’m passionate about or what I want to do with my life.”
International White Cane Day recognises the white cane as a practical mobility tool that supports independence for people who have low vision and blindness.
Guide Dogs Queensland CEO Jock Beveridge said the day was an opportunity to challenge perceptions of vision loss and recognise the independence and possibilities that the right support can help create.
“James’ story shows that losing your sight doesn’t mean losing sight of what you want to achieve in life,” he said.
“Whether it’s building a career, travelling independently or pursuing something you love, having the right support and tools can make a real difference.
“At Guide Dogs Queensland, we want people who have low vision and blindness to feel confident pursuing the things that matter to them.
“A white cane can be a big part of that, helping people navigate the world around them with greater independence and confidence.
“International White Cane Day is a chance to celebrate that independence, challenge some of the assumptions people still make about vision loss and remind everyone that a person’s sight doesn’t define what they’re capable of.”
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