A STRONG mum who’s young daughter is blind has said she wants her to be able to live her life "like everyone else" ahead of taking on a gruelling challenge.

Bridie Starr, 36, is an intensive care unit nurse from Colchester.

Her daughter Mia, 3, lost her sight on October 28, 2021 when she was just 16-months-old.

After conducting scans and tests, doctors discovered a collection of tumours along the brave youngster's optic pathway.

She was subsequently diagnosed with a genetic condition called neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a genetic condition which causes tumours to grow along nerves.

Gazette: Family time - Bridie Starr with her daughter Mia Family time - Bridie Starr with her daughter Mia (Image: RNIB)

Mia, who Bridie says lost her sight overnight, then had to endure 18 months of chemotherapy.

Bridie and her sister, Cheryl Starr, 42, of Hockley, are now taking part in the TCS London Marathon on April 21, in honour of Mia.

They will be raising money for the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).

Bridie said: “I want Mia to grow up in a world where she can access and experience things just like everyone else.

“That’s why we’ve chosen to run for RNIB because the charity wants to create a world without barriers for people living with sight loss.

Gazette: Caring - Aunty Cheryl Starr sitting with MiaCaring - Aunty Cheryl Starr sitting with Mia (Image: RNIB London Marathon)

“It’s a cause very close to our hearts.

“Any donations people make will go a long way towards making that a possibility.”

The sisterly duo decided to take on the 26.2 mile run for RNIB after being inspired by Mia and to help raise awareness of the challenges blind and partially sighted people face every day.

The RNIB is a leading national charity dedicated to standing against exclusion, inequality, and isolation to create a world without barriers where people with sight loss can lead full lives.

Bridie has currently raised £2,758 while Cheryl has raised £1,555 - a combined total of £4,313 so far.

Chris Perrin, RNIB’s head of supporter led fundraising, said: “Running a marathon is undoubtedly a huge challenge for anyone.

“We are very grateful to have Bridie and Cheryl join Team RNIB this year for the TCS London Marathon.

Gazette: Fun - Mia playing on a swingFun - Mia playing on a swing (Image: RNIB)

“The funds raised will help the charity support the estimated two million people living with sight loss in the UK.”

To donate to Bridie’s Gofundme Page, head to tinyurl.com/tks24r34 or you can donate to Cheryl’s page via tinyurl.com/yzv945a7.