Reggie's heartbreak: I won't see Mia grow up

Monday, August 4, 2008

By Monique Butterworth

Pictures: Paul Broben

Our favourite Big Brother winner reveals her devastating diagnosis.

With her eyes firmly focused on her precious 16-month-old daughter Mia, Regina "Reggie" Sorensen is visually taking in all she can. Because, tragically, the popular 2003 Big Brother winner is going blind.

Reggie has retinitis pigmentosa (RP) — an inherited, degenerative condition that affects the retina, the light-sensitive part of the eye. One in 3000 Australians suffer from the disease.

For Reggie, 34, who is now classified as legally blind, it's only a matter of time before she loses her sight completely.

For the full story, see this week's 60th anniversary issue of Woman's Day (on sale August 4).

For more information on RP or to donate to Vision Australia, call 1300 847 466 or visit www.visionaustralia.org.au

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User comments

Hey Reggie, my husband Scott was diagnosed with RP when he was 5, he was classed as legally blind 2 years ago at 38, he is still able to work in our shop

I feel so much for Reggie. I have always thought that becoming blind must be the most heart wrenching experience, for just that, not being able to see your loved ones and your children grow up. It is my worst fear. I pray that Reggie is given the strength to deal with this challenge. My heart is with you Reggie. I hope that you have the support of loved ones.

i wish u all the best,,, everyone loves you,,you will have love to get u through this xoxooxoxooox

This broke my heart...shes finally happy and now this. I wish them all the best. xxxx

omg i feel so bad for reggie she is so loved by the public and just the thought of anything going wrong with her breaks out hearts. and the fact that she wont get to see her young daughter grow up is just so sad.. we all love you reggie and we always will

So very sorry to hear of your illness.My partner and I were huge fans of yours during your appearances on BB. You have the most amazing personality.So natural and uplifting to those around you. We will be praying very hard for healing.Our thoughts are with you as you battle this condition.

Well my prayers and support is to Reggie and her husband at the moment. My prayer is that she will come smooth and remain strong on her fight. God Bless you Reggie and stay strong Ty

Poor reggie, she is one of the most memorable winners yet bad luck seems to strike her when ever she gets ahead. i hope she can find a way to fight back.

I am so sorry to read of Reggies illness, I pray for her and her family, and i hope all turns out well for her,Reggie as far as I am concerned you were the best Big Brother contestant ever we loved you and still do