Welcome back to Life Shouldn’t Hurt—our show where we explore the real, raw truths of pain, recovery, and the extraordinary accomplishments made possible through strong community support. Hosted by Grant Fedoruk and Anita Cassidy, our mission is to help you move better, feel better, and live your life to the fullest.
In this episode, we sat down with Jodi Currie and her 15-year-old daughter, Haiden Currie. Born with albinism and legally blind, Haiden proves every day that her vision loss will not slow her down. She lives and breathes athletics, proving that she is happening to the world, not the other way around.
Finding the Power of Adaptation in Youth Sports
Taking to the ice at just four years old, Haiden has continually rewritten the rules of possibility. Navigating the challenge of tracking a puck with limited sight, she adapted by listening closely to her teammates’ voices and reading the flow of the game.
Haiden’s drive extends far beyond the rink. She actively competes in basketball, volleyball, long-distance track, and school flag football. Practical, inclusive accommodations make a significant impact on her athletic experience:
- Equipment Adjustments: Utilizing a custom-colored volleyball allows her to track play despite severe light sensitivity.
- Environmental Support: Her school dims gymnasium lights to combat photophobia, while track coordinators place her in the outside lane for clear boundary visibility.
- Family & Team Synergy: Her brother runs cross-country alongside her as a guide, and her hockey team maintains constant verbal communication on the ice.
Aside from baseball—which her mother, Jodi, vetoed for safety reasons—Haiden approaches every obstacle as a temporary speed bump.
Actionable Wisdom for Athletes and Mentors
Haiden shares grounded insights applicable to any challenge:
- Run Your Own Race: “Just work hard, not looking at where everybody else is, but where you are, and not trying to be like everyone else because you’re on your own.”
- Lean on Your Support Network: Face difficult days by relying on supportive teammates, parents, and coaches.
- Show Up Every Day: Inspired by hockey player Zach Hyman, Haiden emphasizes: “You don’t have to be the best. You just have to keep working hard and keep working and just doing little things, and if you keep showing up, good things will happen.”
Jodi also encourages parents and mentors to advocate early, educate communities, and support kids in trying new activities. Inclusive sports environments build leadership, empathy, and vital life skills for every participant.
Tune In to the Full Episode
This episode offers a warm, inspiring reminder that personal limitations do not define potential. Whether managing injury recovery, competing in athletics, or seeking personal motivation, Haiden’s story offers valuable perspective.
Listen to the full episode on Life Shouldn’t Hurt to hear Haiden’s story in her own words. Follow and subscribe to ensure you never miss an episode.
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This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns.
