Michael returns to the airwaves with our support

Blind veteran Michael thought his broadcasting days could be over after losing his sight but is now back behind the microphone thanks to our support.

Michael, who is 67-years-old and also known as Lenny, feared he would no longer be able to produce his popular A-Z of Reggae show on Kemet FM after glaucoma robbed him of the last of his remaining vision. But our specialist support has enabled him to continue creating and recording the programme independently, allowing him to keep sharing his passion for reggae music with listeners across Nottingham and beyond.

After gradually losing his sight to glaucoma, Michael reached the point where the computer software he relied on to produce his programmes was no longer accessible.

"It got harder and harder," said Michael. "I'd get so far and then get stuck. Somebody would have to come round and help me find files on the computer so I could finish the show."

The Royal Engineers veteran had spent seven years building a library of more than 300 programmes and was determined to find a way to continue broadcasting independently.

Our Technology Practitioner Scott worked with Michael to find a practical solution that would allow him to continue producing programmes independently.

Scott introduced Michael to equipment that could be operated through touch and sound, meaning that Michael could compile complete radio programmes without needing assistance. Within days of receiving the equipment and training, Michael had already recorded three new two-hour shows.

Scott said: "Michael's goal was always to continue producing his radio show independently.

"As his sight deteriorated, we looked at different options and found a solution that worked for him using tactile controls rather than relying on computer screens. Once he became familiar with the equipment, he took to it incredibly quickly and has done really well."

Michael joined the Royal Engineers in January 1976 and served for ten years. During his military career he was posted to various places around the World including Germany and Canada, and was a keen footballer who represented both his regiment and corps teams.

"I loved every minute of it," he said. "The camaraderie, the friendships and the experiences made it a great ten years."

After leaving the Army, Michael worked as a heavy goods vehicle driver before gaining a teaching degree and spending 13 years teaching at a local college.

He was diagnosed with glaucoma aged 40 and underwent numerous operations as doctors tried to slow the condition's progression.

The moment that affected him most was losing his driving licence.

"That was the hardest thing," said Michael. "I suddenly felt like I'd lost my independence. You don't realise how much you rely on being able to get in the car and go where you want until it's taken away from you."

Today, he is once again doing what he loves, sharing music with listeners across Nottingham and beyond.

The A-Z of Reggae airs on Kemet FM every Thursday at 12am.