Blind skateboarder fundraises to donate iPads to visually impaired youth

Brent Devloo, a resident of Langley, British Columbia, credits his iPad for helping him graduate high school after he suddenly lost his vision in the 11th grade. Now, he is on a mission to provide iPads to other visually impaired youth.

In 2011, at the age of 16, Devloo experienced sudden vision loss in his history class. After being diagnosed with a rare DNA mutation called Leber hereditary optic neuropathy, he received an iPad from his mom’s friends. The built-in screen-reading technology known as Voiceover became his lifeline, enabling him to complete his homework and stay on track with his studies.

“It’s the reason I finished school because I was able to type and read and do everything quickly without learning a whole computer,” Devloo shared.

The iPad also played a crucial role in his entrepreneurial venture, “The Blind Kid,” a clothing line he started to raise funds to purchase iPads for other blind children. To date, Devloo has gifted five iPads and is close to being able to provide another one. His ultimate goal is to inspire visually impaired youth to continue their education and pursue their passions despite their circumstances.

For Devloo, one of his passions was skateboarding, a sport he found liberating even after losing his sight. He described the process of navigating a skatepark by feeling and building up courage as empowering.

In addition to skateboarding, Devloo used his iPad to explore another passion – music. His talent caught the attention of legendary musician Stevie Wonder, leading to an opportunity to work with Wonder’s producer. Devloo believes that his experiences as a blind individual have forced him to mature quickly, and he hopes to make the transition easier for others through his charitable efforts.

Devloo is currently collaborating with Mike Faux, owner of the indoor HMI Skatepark in Hope, on a documentary about his journey as a blind skateboarder. Faux, who has taught Olympians in the past, is impressed by Devloo’s determination and resilience.

The documentary aims to inspire others facing similar challenges and convey the message that nothing is impossible. Devloo’s advice to young people in similar situations is to let negativity fuel their determination and prove naysayers wrong.

Through his advocacy work and generosity, Brent Devloo is making a significant impact on the lives of visually impaired youth, showing them that with the right tools and mindset, they can achieve their dreams.