Interpreter has strong bond with deafblind
Suzie Scott has a unique link with the deafblind community.
The Auslan interpreter has several close relatives affected by hearing impairment.
"I saw some Auslan as a child and I really wanted to learn it," Ms Scott said.
After getting a diploma in Auslan studies, Ms Scott joined Senses Australia as a volunteer.
At Senses, Ms Scott works with deaf and blind people to improve their quality of life.
"Within my diploma I completed a unit in deafblind studies, which was the first time I was introduced to what it means to have dual sensory loss," she said.
"I knew then I wanted to become involved with the deafblind community."
In her three years as a Senses Australia volunteer, Ms Scott has attended five deafblind camps in WA and Victoria.
At Perth's most recent deafblind camp in November, she was among 100 volunteers who helped 50 deafblind participants.
Ms Scott said not-for-profit group Senses Australia played a key role as the camp's organiser.
"The deafblind community is full of interesting, insightful and amazing people and I feel honoured to be a part of it," she said.
Senses Australia, which is celebrating its 120th anniversary, is a beneficiary of United Way's Five Cents for Five Senses campaign.
The campaign encourages people to donate their unwanted five cent pieces to charity.
Collection tins can be found at Westpac and HBF branches.
Claire Tyrrell
More information at unitedway.com.au
