Blind by 18 — How Laura Bratton Rebuilt Her Life Through Grit & Gratitude

Born with full sight and diagnosed at nine years old with a rare degenerative eye disease, Laura Bratton lost nearly all her vision by the end of high school. Panic attacks. Depression. Identity collapse.But she refused to let blindness define her.In this powerful conversation, Laura shares how she rebuilt her life through grit, gratitude, community, and the courage to accept a new normal. From losing her vision as a teenager to becoming a professional speaker who helps organizations navigate change, Laura’s story is proof that purpose is still possible — even when life looks nothing like you imagined.If you're facing transition, uncertainty, or a battle you didn’t choose… this episode is for you.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 — Cold Open00:18 — Who is Laura Bratton01:20 — Diagnosed at 9: The beginning of vision loss05:05 — The day she realized she couldn’t see the board09:12 — Panic attacks, denial, and depression13:45 — How her parents modeled strength and normalcy19:10 — Friendships, support, and navigating high school23:50 — Why community matters for healing28:40 — Accepting a new normal33:15 — Receiving her first guide dog38:20 — College, independence, and majoring in psychology42:55 — Pursuing a Master of Divinity47:30 — Faith, spirituality, and emotional healing51:12 — Living without sight in a sighted world55:03 — Grit + Gratitude: Her framework for navigating change59:10 — What she teaches on stage01:04:22 — Advice for anyone with a disability or major life change01:09:10 — Laura’s definition of Turning Pain Into ProgressIf this episode hit you…If you’re navigating your own battle and need structure, discipline, and a community that pushes you forward—👉 Apply for Operation Relentless — Your 90-Day Comeback Planhttp://www.battleharder.com/relentlessYou weren’t built to break.You were built to rise.🔗 CONNECT WITH LAURA BRATTONBook: Harnessing Courage