Emmerdale stars Laura Norton and Mark Jordon are turning heartbreak into hope as they continue their mission to raise vital funds for Usher Syndrome research. With both of their children, Jesse (4) and Ronnie (2), diagnosed with the rare genetic condition that causes progressive hearing and sight loss, the couple are determined to help speed the race toward a cure.
A Cause Close to Home
Usher Syndrome has changed everything for Laura and Mark. The diagnosis of both their children pushed them into action, leading them to launch the annual Cure Usher Ball in Manchester. Now in its third year, the event has become a beacon of hope not just for their family, but for countless others facing the same diagnosis.
Laura explained: “The ball is a distraction because it feels like we are doing something for our children and the community of people with Usher Syndrome. But the reality is, it’s a ticking time bomb for these little kids and at some point they’re going to lose their vision.”
Mark added: “Our kids are the starting block. We know we can’t ever stop now. How could you ever turn your back on people who need help?”
From Soap Stars to Fundraisers
The couple first met on Emmerdale—Laura still stars as Kerry Wyatt, while Mark played Daz Spencer—and have since discovered a whole new skill set off-screen.
“We’re not just actors anymore—we’re in events now!” Laura laughed. “Our negotiating skills are so much better now.”
Their first ball raised nearly £60,000, blowing their expectations out of the water. Since then, it has become an annual fixture, attracting soap stars, celebrities, and supporters eager to make a difference.
A Night of Glitz With a Greater Purpose
This year’s event, held at Manchester’s Deansgate Hotel, will take on a Studio 54 disco theme complete with sequins and sparkle. Alexandra Burke and Chelsea Halfpenny are lined up to perform, while stars from Emmerdale, Coronation Street, and beyond are set to attend.
Despite the glitz, the goal remains the same: funding research that could change lives. Laura shared: “There’s a professor in this country leading the way with vision loss for this syndrome. If she gets the funding, there will be something in the next decade. This community deserves people cheering them on.”
Fighting for the Future
The emotional weight of the cause is never far away. Mark has been filming stories of other families impacted by Usher Syndrome, bringing their struggles—and their strength—into the spotlight at the ball.
“You see people absolutely destroyed because they’ve got perfect kids,” he said. “We’re not telling our children yet. We want them to live in as happy a way as possible.”
Hope Shines Bright
With sponsors including Mum&Me, Starkey, JD Foundation, and Birmingham Optical, support for the event continues to grow. Laura and Mark hope that each ball brings them closer to the ultimate goal—a cure.
“People like to be part of finding the cure,” Laura said. “They feel they’re doing something to help.”
For the couple, it’s a mission that extends far beyond the ballroom. It’s about giving their children—and countless others—the chance to grow up without the fear of losing their sight.
