Fighting for sight
571. Emma Salisbury
Emma Salisbury’s son Tommy was diagnosed with a rare eye disorder aged 4.
Choroideremia causes progressive loss of vision, eventually leading to blindness, but Emma was determined not to let Tommy lose his battle. She challenged herself to find a cure for her son’s debilitating condition, and with the help of the charity Fight for Sight, the Tommy Salisbury Choroideremia Fund was created in 2005. Since then, Emma’s tireless fundraising efforts have raised an astonishing £475,000, funding world-leading research at Imperial College London.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
“After her son was diagnosed with Choroideremia, Emma kindly offered support to others living with the condition by raising impressive amounts for charity. Emma’s dedication to fighting for sight has improved the lives of so many people with this debilitating eye condition. I’m delighted to name her a Point of Light.”
Emma said:
“I am delighted to accept this award and thank you for taking time to read my story. I really am just a normal mum who does whatever it takes for her children. It has been an incredible journey along the way with highs and lows and I have met some amazing people and done some great things. Tommy makes me so proud everyday and really this award is for him, he is so strong and looks at his future as if there will be no obstacles in his way”.
Michele Acton, Chief Executive of Fight for Sight, said:
“We are thrilled that Emma has been recognised for her tremendous achievements in raising funds for the Tommy Salisbury Choroideremia Fund at Fight for Sight. Choroideremia is a blinding condition for which there is currently no treatment, thanks to Emma’s determination, drive and commitment, British researchers have started the world’s first clinical trial of a potential treatment for this condition.”