Storm overcomes despite his blindness
A blind resident of Amanzimtoti demonstrates his ability to overcome the odds and his disability to achieve his best.
AMANZIMTOTI resident, Storm Schwartz, went completely blind at the age of 18. Despite this, he overcomes his disability and thrives, surfing through Made for More, an organisation for differently-abled surfers, doing park runs, and gyming to stay in shape.
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Storm (34), was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at the age of 10. He currently lives with his mum, Melinda May Holtmann, who always helps and encourages him to do everything to the best of his ability and get him out of his comfort zone.
After matriculating, he completed a course in computer literacy and telephony, a Braille and cane workshop, and a learnership in media. He is currently seeking employment.
“I have a portable reading device called an Orcam. It hooks onto my sunglasses and can read text, packaging off shelves and say people’s names. I have talkback on my cellphone and my laptop has JAWS (job access for windows and speech). I have an excellent support system with friends and family, who help me to be confident and independent by encouraging me to try and do things for myself,” said Schultz.
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He cooks dinner with the help of his trusty air fryer, washes dishes, takes the rubbish out. He has also made and sold his own biltong. He said that once he gets to know his surroundings, he can get around without assistance.
“I am quite well known in the community as I attend church, have done some motivational speaking, go to gym, do Park Run, surf with Made For More, go for walks on the beach. In my spare time, I enjoy listening to broadcasts of sports like cricket, rugby and soccer, and enjoy listening to music. I hope my story encourages and inspires you,” said Schultz.
He has participated in the Tin Man Tri Series and played cricket for KZN at the T20 Blind Cricket Cup.
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