My name is Deirn Geard Three years go I was diagnosed with a disease called Optic Nerve Drusen. This disease affects both eyes and impacts on 1 % of the population. Most are asymptomatic, however, I am not. I have lost significant vision over the last 3 years and have been told that there is no treatment. I will lose all of my vision over time. At present, I have less than 8% residual vision in the form of tunnel vision. I have set myself 3 goals and have achieved 2 of the original goals. The first 2 goals were to secure training for the blind in the form of orientation and mobility and in guide dog use. My new guide dog Shadow was presented to me through Guide Dogs Queensland and is now with me always. Truly a blessing. I have completed all courses and have identified technologies that will augment much of my loss. I have already acquired many of these devices myself. The final goal in my current journey was to regain employment and get on with my life. I have paid for much of the technology required to re-enter the workforce myself and have reached a point where I need a little leg up to secure additional technology that will allow me to realize my dream. The specialized equipment required has reached the $10,000 mark and I have locked the target in. If you can help with my goal to regain employment through funding assistance to facilitate the required acquisitions I will be that much closer to my final goal. I thank you for considering my situation