RNIB - Health and Wellbeing

Have you heard of Stickler Syndrome? Stickler Syndrome is a genetic condition affecting connective tissue and causing different symptoms. There are at least 11 distinct sub-groups of the condition, but they typically can present in main four areas: Eyes, hearing, musculoskeletal, and oro-facial.  
Frequently unrecognised and undiagnosed, Charity Stickler Syndrome UK is hoping to raise awareness of this genetic condition, but also awareness of a free checklist tool to help catch the condition early.
Happy Hour's Paulina Kuchorew is joined by student Amelia Aves, who was diagnosed early and able to retain hair sight due to early intervention.
To find the free checklist screening tool visit: Screening for Stickler Syndrome Type 1
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With a raise in meningitis cases amongst students, last month, the UK Health Security Agency has announced a free time-limited MenB vaccination programme for a million eligible young people in the 2026-27 academic year. 
Today, we’re joined by Patricia, who contracted meningitis in her late 30s back in 2006 and was left with long-term effects on her sight, hearing, taste and mobility.
 She spoke with Happy Hour's Paulina about the long-term impact, finding support as she recovered and keeping a positive mindset.
If you have a question about living with sight loss, no matter how big or small, RNIB are here to offer support. You can call the Helpline on 0303 123 9999 anytime from 9am–5pm, Monday to Friday.
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On the Happy Hour this week, we're chatting health and wellbeing, with a particular focus on blind baseball.
But, how do you play it and what wellbeing benefits does it offer?
We’re joined by Sheraz Chohan founder and competition and development officer at UK Blind Baseball Association (UKBBA) as well as Amjad Khan, Chairman and co-founder or the organisation.
To get in touch with the UK Blind Baseball Association visit: UK Blind Baseball Association
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How can music help memory and support people with dementia?
Amelia speaks to Pam Ribbeck from Playlist For Life to learn more about their work and why you should consider making a playlist.
Learn more on their website - Homepage - Playlist for Life
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Let’s join Paulina in the kitchen again, and this time, she's trying a couple gut-friendly recipes.
Paulina followed the recipes from UK’s digestive health charity Guts UK.
Recipe for overnight cocoa oats: Overnight Cocoa Oats - Guts UK - Guts UK
Recipe for cottage cheese bread: Cottage Cheese Bread - Guts UK - Guts UK
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