Devante began losing his sight due to a degenerative condition diagnosed at age 8. His vision progressively worsened, affecting his ability to engage in sports, social activities, and daily life. Despite early denial and struggles with independence, his determination helped him adapt and find purpose.
Devante playing Goalball for Winchester
Early Struggles and Adjustments
By his late teens, Devante faced difficulties like reading, navigating in low light, and playing sports. This was especially a mental challenge as he loved playing football and rugby with friends, which was no longer possible. Initially resistant to aids like canes and training, he leaned on family support and fought to maintain independence.
Career Journey
At 16, he got a job at TK Max as a cashier, however, this was short lived as he was unable to work the tills or read money due to his condition. After four months, he left but then Devante found farming, a job and hobby he loved despite increasing risks as his vision deteriorated. At his peak, he was in charge of over 380 animals at one time. Unable to continue safely due to his worsening condition however, he sought new paths, attending RNC for 9 months to study massage therapy and later working with people experiencing mental health challenges. He spent this time finding himself, and learning to accept himself and his condition. After finishing there, he had plans to start a massage business but these were unfortunately disrupted by COVID-19.
Finding MyVision and Mack
At around 26, after leaving the farm, having to postpone his dreams of owning a massage business, and struggling to find any other work, he couldn’t deny his condition anymore. He blamed his situation on his eyes and didn’t know what to do. In 2022, he found MyVision and around the same time he got Mack, his trusted guide dog, and best friend. With Mack by his side, he began to gain confidence, learning to use public transport independently and leading social groups for MyVision, even taking other visually impaired people on long walks.
Devante standing in front of a tree holding Mack
Personal Achievements
Devante has embraced opportunities, playing goalball for Winchester and touring Europe with them, purchasing his own home, and planning his wedding. His journey was highlighted on ITV’s This Morning, where he proposed to his fiancée, sharing his story and advocating for MyVision.
Devante with his fiancé
Devante, Hannah and Mack on ITV this morning
Giving Back
Through MyVision, Devante uses his lived experience to support others. In 2023, he completed the Three Peaks Challenge, raising £7,000 for three charities, including MyVision.
Outlook
Devante cherishes each day, inspired by the people he meets and the opportunities ahead. He lives by the motto:
The loss of vision does not mean the loss of a vision
A Message from Devante
It has been amazing meeting so many inspirational people in my social groups as they all have a story to tell on their journeys, and thank you to everyone I have met on my journey to accept myself.
