Lucy Edwards
Blind Content Creator & Pantene Ambassador
Lucy Edwards shares how one can be an inspiration to people who have lost their sight at a young age and how to create change in a ‘sighted world.’
Q: How did you begin your rehabilitation journey?
I was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition Incontinentia Pigmenti when I was young. It got worse in my teens, and I started rehabilitation at 17. You re-evaluate everything and have to learn to eat, drink and everything all over again. You basically have to start your life as a reset.
Q: How do you navigate daily life?
I’m very independent. I didn’t want to sit around and not be equal to my partner. I cook, clean and look after our two dogs. When I first went blind, I thought I was a burden. But it was just about taking one step at a time to learn each skill — like pouring a glass of water, making cereal and doing makeup — again. Getting used to all those things, it’s just a new reality.
I don’t want people not understanding who they are because we’re not represented in the media.
Q: Is there anything that helps you the most?
I have a lot of tools. I have a talking microwave from RNIB. There’s system for everything: Liquid level indicators in my glass, labels on clothes. I love all-in-one outfits for ease. There are apps on my phone like Aira — a paid subscription where you ring mobility assistants.
Q: What impact do you hope to make?
I have big goals to change the beauty industry. I’m a Pantene ambassador, work with guide dogs and teach visually impaired 10 to 17-year-olds how to use iPads and social media because those weren’t there when I was that age. It’s about empowering young people, and I have exciting things in the pipeline.
Q: What inspired you to become a public figure?
I used to Google blindness as a young girl, and nothing would appear. I trained to be a BBC journalist. I was inspired by other people’s stories and wanted to tell mine. For me, it’s education first. We live in a sighted world where things aren’t made for people like me unless I fight and use my platform to influence big brands and hold them accountable. I don’t want people not understanding who they are because we’re not represented in the media.
Q: What would you say to your 17-year-old self?
That I know it’s tearing you apart but it’s a storm you can weather (quote from a song called O’ Sister). Getting up from your failures is what will define you.
