I’m a 21-year-old university student living with Visual Snow Syndrome (VSS) and chronic migraines. My journey to discovering I had VSS started during a lecture when I mentioned to my neurologist that I was struggling to see the lecturer clearly from near the front row. After describing my symptoms, she suggested I might have Visual Snow Syndrome, a condition I had never heard of before.
Unfortunately, many general practitioners and doctors I’ve encountered think it’s part of migraine aura. I’d have to explain the key differences between the two. Thankfully, my neurologist and my university’s optometrist clinic, where academic staff (often lecturers supervising students) are familiar with VSS, were able to provide support and treatment options, such as FL41 lenses.
Looking back, I believe I’ve always had some form of visual snow, but it became more noticeable after developing migraines in late 2021. Despite the challenges, I’m grateful for the understanding and care I’ve received, and I’m passionate about raising awareness of this condition to help others who might be going through similar experiences.
The Project: Visual Snow Syndrome Awareness and Education Initiative
Mikayla created a fictional organization, the Visual Snow Syndrome Foundation Australia, and launched a multi-platform awareness campaign that blends technology, storytelling, and design. Her project was showcased at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Design Exhibition, reaching peers, professors, and industry professionals alike.
What It Includes:
- AR & VR Simulations: Users can step into the world of someone with VSS through Oculus-powered VR and augmented reality experiences that mimic the symptoms of Visual Snow by scanning the QR code on posters
- Educational Materials: Posters, stickers, a pamphlet, a website, and a dedicated Instagram page help explain VSS in clear, relatable terms—breaking myths and promoting understanding.
- Supportive Messaging: Resources and coping tools are included to support those newly diagnosed or seeking connection.
Goals & Objectives
- Awareness – Increase public awareness of VSS by making its symptoms more visible and understandable.
- Education – Provide accurate and accessible information about VSS to debunk myths and promote informed discussions.
- Empathy – Simulate the visual and auditory experiences of individuals with VSS to foster empathy by allowing users to see the world through their eyes.
- Support – Provide resources and coping strategies for those affected by VSS, helping them connect with support networks and professional guidance.
Impact
The project makes a significant impact by:
- Providing a multi-faceted platform for educating and engaging both the public and medical professionals.
- Helping those affected by VSS feel seen and supported by raising awareness through immersive experiences.
- Promoting informed discussions and better understanding of VSS through both traditional educational materials and emerging technologies.
