One In Five for Sunday 9 June 2013

Katy Gosset meets a blind woman who uses voice software to work as a volunteer counsellor for Lifeline.

Petronella doesn't use her real name when she takes calls for the counselling service but she does draw on her own experiences when interacting with clients. She says losing her eyesight was the catalyst for her to fulfill a long-held desire to become a counsellor.

Six months after completing her training, she says the knowledge that she can make even a small difference to someone's day is a huge buzz.

Right: Petronella with Fletcher at Lifeline in Christchurch.