The special afternoon brought together researchers and families to celebrate five years of progress in Usher syndrome research and to recognise the important role people with lived experience play in shaping the future of scientific discovery.

Usher syndrome is a rare inherited condition affecting both hearing and vision, creating lifelong challenges for individuals and families. For the past five years, Ear Science researchers have been working to deepen understanding of the condition and explore potential pathways for future treatments.

During the visit, families attended a presentation and discussion with members of the research team before taking a guided tour through Ear Science’s laboratories. They had the opportunity to see firsthand how research is conducted and discuss how their experiences can help influence future research priorities.

The event was designed not only to showcase the progress made over the past five years, but also to strengthen connections between researchers and the community they serve. Hearing directly from families provides valuable insights helping ensure research remains focused on the outcomes which matter most to people living with Usher syndrome.

By bringing together science and lived experience, Ear Science remains committed to advancing research which has the potential to improve the lives of people affected by hearing loss and related conditions, including Usher syndrome.