Yvette Chivers is gearing up to drive three race cars to fundraise for the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).
Yvette, also known as DJ Miss Chivers, was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) over twenty years ago. The genetic eye condition affects the light-sensitive cells in the retina at the back of the eye, causing the person’s sight to deteriorate over time.
This year will be fifteen years since Yvette had to return her driving license to the DVLA and give up driving for good. To mark the anniversary, the 45-year-old is doing AbleNet’s Blind Driving Experience and will be driving three supercars around a track, accompanied by a professional instructor who will give feedback on direction and speed.
“I’m unbelievably excited to be back behind a steering wheel,” said Yvette, an Events Manager and DJ (pictured above).
“When I learned I wouldn’t be able to drive anymore I was devastated, and it felt like I was stripped of my independence.
“So, I thought marking the anniversary with AbleNet’s Blind Driving Experience was a perfect way to do something I once enjoyed, and to raise money for RNIB who support a cause very close to my heart.”
Since Yvette was diagnosed with sight loss, she has fundraised tirelessly for multiple sight loss charities, including trekking the Himalayas to Nepal for RNIB.
Over the years, Yvette has DJ’d around Europe and popular festivals in the UK playing music to thousands. She recently received her assistive technology grant from RNIB to help her not only with work but also with day-to-day tasks.
“RNIB’s tech grant has been brilliant,” said Yvette. “I received an accessible Dictaphone, which is so handy for my radio work and the talking scales and talking measuring jug are useful in the kitchen. I’m very grateful for all the support RNIB has given me.”
If you would like to support Yvette’s fundraising efforts for RNIB, her JustGiving page can be found here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/miss-chivers-drives-again.
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