Veterans' stories
We help thousands of blind veterans to rebuild their lives. And each one has a powerful story to tell.
Some were blinded in conflict, while others lost their vision in later life. Some are still young, struggling to find work and support their families, while others are navigating the difficult challenges of old age.
We're honoured to share some of their stories on this page - each one is as inspiring as it is heart-breaking. Their strength moves us every day, and we are proud to be able to support them on their journey to greater independence and a more fulfilling life.
Simon
Simon was a young man in the prime of his service career when he was hit by a sniper's bullet in Iraq in 2006.
He lost his left eye and was left with only 20 per cent vision in his right. Struggling to rebuild his life and adjust to his sight loss, Simon turned to Blind Veterans UK.
Jill's story
Jill's nursing career was cut short when she lost her sight due to the hereditary eye condition, retinitis pigmentosa.
As her sight deteriorated, the Army veteran felt increasingly vulnerable - until our rehabilitation and training helped her find her confidence again.
Rob
Rob was just 23 when he suffered severe injuries to his head and face in a horrific blast in Afghanistan.
Despite losing both his eyes in the attack, these days he's achieving more than he ever thought possible and says that's all down to our support.
Roan
After following in his brother’s footsteps into the Army, Roan career was ruined by an undiagnosed sight loss condition.
Eventually found to have retinitis pigmentosa, he became increasingly isolated until, with our help, he started to live an active life again.
Billy
Billy was devastated when he lost his sight while serving in Bosnia. With a young family to support, he felt terrified and completely unable to cope.
Fortunately, we were there to help him achieve his independence again - and so much more.
Jules
After serving in the Royal Military Police for more than ten years, Jules became very depressed and isolated when his sight suddenly deteriorated in his late 40s.
Now one of our most active beneficiaries, he dedicates his time to helping other blind veterans in the same boat.
Highlighted content
Ken's story
Ken was isolated after he lost his sight and his wife died. But meeting our volunteer, Liam, changed his life.
Chris's story
Chris was a young dad at the height of his career when he was blinded on duty. See how he turned his life around.
Eddie's story
Our tribute to a much-loved D-Day veteran who lost his sight late in life and found our support life-changing.
Blinded in combat: a photography exhibition
For Remembrance 2022 we teamed up with an award-winning photographer to capture the portraits of nine blind veterans who lost their sight in the line of duty.
Discover the amazing stories behind the portraits and find out how they lost their sight, the challenges they faced, and their ongoing journey of rehabilitation.
Read more
How we help veterans
Find out how we help ex-Servicemen and women turn their lives around.
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