Pride of Remembrance

For me, Remembrance is about thinking of others. It's about the people who served and gave everything, and the families who stood by them.

I joined the Royal Navy when I was 20 and volunteered for the submarine service. By the time I’d finished training, 9/11 had happened, and that meant deployments all over the world. Most of my service was spent in the Arabian Sea.

On submarines, everyone had more than one role. I was a stores accountant, but I also qualified as a diving planesman instructor and a fireman. I enjoyed the responsibility, but honestly the best bit was when we finally went into port. We’d been away for weeks, and getting letters from home was really special. Back then, none of us had mobile phones, so letters meant everything.

A shocking diagnosis

A couple of years into my service, I became very unwell. I was diagnosed with Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cancer. I’ll never forget the consultant holding up my X-ray, saying, “The whole of the right side of your chest is grey. That’s all cancer.” It was a huge shock – I was only 24 – but I used the resilience and humour the military had given me to keep going.

When I went into remission I wanted to stay in the submarine service, but I was told I’d need to be on a ship with a doctor. That would have meant a lot less responsibility than I’d had on a submarine. This is when I made the incredibly difficult decision to leave the Navy.

Adapting to sight loss

I’m now severely sight impaired, and my eyesight is still declining. I haven’t driven in two years; that feeling of independence is already leaving me. Day to day, I’ve had to adapt small things, like walking along the edge of the curb to keep myself in a straight line, as well as using aids that help me stay safe.

Blind Veterans UK has been a huge support, and what makes them so inspiring is how much they give people back their confidence and independence. They don't just provide practical help; they create a real sense of belonging. You feel part of a military family that understands what you’re going through.

What inspires me most are the other veterans. Everyone’s story is different, but the way they face sight loss with strength and determination is remarkable. It shows you that sight loss doesn’t have to be the end of independence or ambition.

Proud to march 

This year I feel honoured to be marching at the Cenotaph alongside other blind veterans, including some who fought in the Second World War. I’ve watched the ceremony on TV so many times so being part of it is going to be very special.

I’ll be thinking of my dad that day. He served in the Enniskillen Regiment in the war and was badly injured. He never spoke about his experiences, but I know he was awarded medals for his service. He carried those memories quietly, and I’ll carry his memory with me as I march. I hope I can make him proud.

And I’ll also be thinking of Blind Veterans UK, because they’ve shown me, and so many others, that no matter what challenges we face, we can still live full and meaningful lives.