James & John's Story

At just 12 years old, James has already overcome so much. After being diagnosed with a visual impairment and cerebral palsy at a young age, things like recognising faces became challenging.

But James and his dad, John, refused to let that define his future. With support from Vista, James has grown in confidence, independence and belief. From learning new skills to unforgettable adventures at Calvert, he’s discovered that a visual impairment shouldn’t hold you back.

Vista has been there every step of the way for James and his family. And we’re determined to keep being there. We’re so grateful to James and John for sharing their story with us as part of our emergency appeal.

Our emergency appeal is about protecting vital services that children like James rely on, today and in the future. If we cannot raise enough funds to secure Vista’s future and are forced to close, any funds raised will be redirected to a charity with similar aims.

If you can, please consider donating and helping us protect the support families depend on.

[Video Description: The video is filmed in Vista’s boardroom, which has cream-coloured walls and wooden panelling. A large wooden table is visible, with activity sheets and Vista leaflets placed on top. James appears on screen speaking to camera. He is a young boy with short brown hair, wearing glasses and a hoodie. He is seated in a power wheelchair. The video cuts to John speaking separately. He has short brown hair and is wearing a grey jumper with a small microphone clipped to it. Throughout the video, the footage transitions to clips of James taking part in activities at Calvert and other Vista events over the years. These scenes show him outdoors and in activity settings, participating in experiences and spending time in group environments.]

Support Vista's emergency appeal