The tech giving Alan his most meaningful moments

Technology has taken Alan around the world, but nothing compares to the difference it has made in his life at home.

Alan joined the Navy in 2002. Just three years later, while completing his training as a nuclear submarine engineer, he lost his sight due to a rare genetic condition.

At just 25, he was forced to retire from the Armed Forces.

“I was full of worry and uncertainty for my future,” Alan says. “The Royal Navy was what I expected to do for life.”

With his career went his fitness too. Alan credits Blind Veterans UK with helping him find employment and rediscover running, both with a guide and independently using a running machine.

“They gave me my mojo back.”

Extraordinary achievements after sight loss

Since then, Alan has completed three ultramarathons, including the Marathon des Sables, and 24 marathons.

He also has two world records under his belt: the first visually impaired person to row across the Atlantic and the first to ski from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole.

But despite these remarkable achievements, one of the most meaningful moments made possible by technology happened at home.

Technology making a difference

Sight loss affects every part of Alan’s life, including being a dad: “I was really aware it was going to be different for me.”

Some things many parents take for granted simply weren’t possible. “I've never properly seen my daughter's face, which is heartbreaking.”

Determined to be the best father he could be, Alan focused on moments that mattered most to him.

“It was really important for me to do some of the key Dad things, like reading her a bedtime story, but I knew I wouldn’t be able to read.”

Alan turned to the Blind Veterans UK technology team, who introduced him to OrCam glasses.

The device scans text and reads it into an earpiece, allowing Alan to repeat the words to his daughter. For Alan, it meant being able to share a simple but precious part of family life.

“I felt like a real dad,” he says. “I was doing something other dads do.

I've had incredible opportunities around the world, but sensing the smile on her face – that was the best feeling of all.”