A TALENTED teenager with a rare congenital eye condition has released a new charity single to help others living with the disease.

Colchester Royal Grammar School student Ethan Peacock wrote Unique after being inspired by his experience living with Norrie disease.

Diagnosed with the condition when he was six-months-old, Ethan uses the lyrics of the song to explain what its like being one of few people in the country with the debilitating condition.

The 14-year-old performs the track with his brother, Jasper, the other member of their band the Thunderbolts.

He said: “I’ve always been conscious of being different but it has definitely got harder as I’ve got older.

“There are more expectations as you get older and situations you need to be able to tackle by yourself such as spending extra time on school work and homework to keep up with others and remembering new braille codes and how to use specialist equipment, so I can be independent.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

“This song was all about being strong and resilient, something I’m determined to be and if it makes other people realise they’re not alone then I’ll be happy.

“I wanted to help the charity that has made a huge difference to my life.”

Ethan’s mum Theresa added: “The single reflects Ethan’s views on life, he always looks on the positive side of life and rather than dwelling on the negative he wants this single to inspire others to be strong.” Norrie disease predominantly affects boys and causes blindness or severe sight impairment at birth. Other symptoms can include progressive hearing loss, autism, cognitive impairment and delayed development.

Ethan will donate proceeds from the single to the Norrie Disease Foundation, which supports sufferers and conducts research into the trajectory of the disease.

Wendy Horrobin, chairwoman of the Norrie Disease Foundation, said: “The money from this single will help us fund community days where children like Ethan can interact with other people with Norrie disease and share experiences.

“It’s also about ensuring they have role models by connecting them with inspirational adults with the Norrie disease.”

To purchase a digital download of Unique, visit thethunderbolts.bandcamp.com/track/unique.