Walking tall again
For Royal Air Force veteran Martin, walking tall and proud had once been second nature. But two years ago, that changed.
His eyesight deteriorated rapidly; he noticed himself hunching over, constantly looking down to watch his feet. His confidence was in tatters.
Martin had been issued a symbol cane by social services but it wasn’t the answer. But then he met Sarah, his Blind Veterans UK Support Worker, and Jayne, his Rehabilitation Officer. Together, they worked with Martin to help him regain his independence - not just by providing a long cane, but by giving him the training and encouragement to use it confidently.
Martin got his freedom back.
Through cane training, Martin learned the essential skills to walk safely and independently. He practised how to hold the cane correctly, use the ball tip to detect obstacles, navigate stairs, and cross roads with curbs. “They really did do a terrific job,” he says.
Now, Martin walks upright and with confidence - just as he did during his time in service. He’s able to make his way to the local supermarket on his own, trusting his cane to guide him and signal to others to give him space.
“I know how to use it properly. I’m so relaxed with it now - I don’t go out without my cane. I think it’s brilliant, I really do.”
Losing his sight meant Martin had to give up his driving licence, something he found particularly difficult. But cane training has helped him reclaim the independence he thought he’d lost. “Even if it’s just a short walk somewhere locally, it’s a big difference from being trapped inside your home.”
Martin now proudly tells others about the support he’s received. “I tell everyone when I’m going around how brilliant Blind Veterans UK has been.”
"Sarah and Jayne, they’ve done marvels. I cannot thank them enough."
Find out more about the types of canes that blind veterans use.
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