Butte County High School senior Kayden Siler is proving that it’s okay to be different. Diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a progressive vision disease at age 8, Siler struggled with feelings of frustration and anger as his eyesight worsened. Despite his condition, Siler refused to let it hold him back. After initially feeling left out of sports due to his vision loss, he found a new passion in track and field. Despite challenges with his vision, Siler worked hard to master the high jump event, eventually clearing 5-4 at a district meet.
Siler’s determination and positive attitude have inspired those around him, including his coach Boone Barnes, who praised his athleticism and resilience. Though faced with setbacks in his vision, Siler refused to give up and found ways to adapt, such as adding black tape to the high jump bar to improve visibility. A life-changing experience at a program for visually impaired students in Boise gave Siler a new perspective and motivation to pursue his dreams of attending college and studying physical therapy.
Despite ongoing challenges with his vision, Siler continues to excel in track and field, recently clearing 5-3 at a meet in Carey. His story serves as a reminder that with determination and a positive mindset, anything is possible. Siler’s journey of overcoming obstacles and embracing his differences is an inspiration to all who know him.
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