Chris McCausland Reveals Impactful Daughter Comment Amid Blindness Guilt

Chris McCausland, a celebrated comedian and winner of Strictly Come Dancing, recently shared his feelings about fatherhood and his visual impairment. He expressed guilt over potentially limiting his daughter, Sophie, due to his blindness. Chris fondly recalls the childhood experiences shared with his own father, including watching Liverpool play at Anfield and visiting funfairs.

Fatherhood Through the Lens of Blindness

In his memoir, *Keep Laughing*, Chris reflects on his concerns about being the father he believes Sophie deserves. He feared that his blindness would hinder him from participating in traditional parenting activities. Chris acknowledges that his wife, Patricia, chose to be with him despite his condition, but emphasized that children do not get to select their parents.

Sophie’s Understanding of Her Father’s Condition

Sophie, now 13, has adapted to her father’s blindness. Chris recalls a poignant moment when she asked, “You can’t find the cup, Daddy? Because your eyes are broken?” This question highlighted her awareness of his visual impairment and marked a significant realization for Chris.

Concerns About Genetic Inheritance

• Chris McCausland has Retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic disorder causing progressive vision loss.
• He worried about passing this condition to his daughter.
• Fortunately, Sophie has shown no symptoms of the disorder.

After several years, Chris noted that Sophie has surpassed the age when the symptoms of his condition would typically manifest. He expressed relief that Sophie appears to have avoided inheriting Retinitis pigmentosa, stating, “The coin landed favorably this time.”

Coming to Terms with Guilt

Chris McCausland admits that he struggled with guilt about his limitations as a father. However, he has come to terms with the notion that Sophie does not expect him to fulfill traditional parental roles. “There is lots I’m unable to do as her dad, but she doesn’t care about that, and neither do I anymore,” he said.

In sharing his journey, Chris provides an inspiring perspective on parenting with a disability, emphasizing adaptability and the unconditional love between a father and his daughter.