Comedian Chris McCausland has released his memoir, “Keep Smiling,” where he candidly discusses the impact of blindness on his marriage and family life. McCausland, known for his television appearances and a winner of a popular dance competition, has been blind since the age of 22 due to retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic condition.
Insights into Marriage and Blindness
In his memoir, McCausland elaborates on the complexities of his marriage to Patricia, a Brazilian national. The couple has been married for over ten years and resides in London with their 11-year-old daughter, Sophie. He reveals that his visual impairment has influenced not only his identity but also Patricia’s, requiring her to make sacrifices typically expected in married life.
The Challenges of Intimacy
McCausland shares that intimate conversations have become challenging. Questions about appearance, which many couples consider normal, have turned into difficult moments. He humorously mentioned his struggle to provide reassuring answers to Patricia’s inquiries, such as “Does my hair look okay?” or “Do these clothes match?” As a result, Patricia has stopped seeking his opinions about her looks, realizing that he cannot provide satisfying feedback.
Fatherhood and Its Difficulties
The comedian also reflects on his experiences as a father. When Sophie was a year old, he faced difficulties engaging with her due to her silent but mobile nature. Now that she is older and more communicative, he finds parenting somewhat easier. However, he still grapples with the limitations posed by his blindness, particularly in assisting her with reading and writing. McCausland worries that Sophie’s peers may exceed him in skills such as handwriting.
A Touching Reflection on Family Life
Chris McCausland’s memoir not only highlights the issues faced by couples where one partner has a visual impairment but also showcases the love and resilience that define his family life. His openness serves as a heartfelt reminder of the struggles unique to families dealing with disabilities.
