Mimi- sounds like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I would be happy to read and edit your essay if you want to email it to me- not quite so sure about suggestions to get started. I'm sure you have plenty of cycling adventures under challenging conditions that you can draw on to discuss- they must somehow impact your attitude, ability to problem-solve, patience etc in your work. Plus there is your artistic side.

Pax- hugs for the tough news on your brother. Is the condition treatable, or is it an inevitable progression to blindness.