My story
My name is Chris, and I'm a blind veteran recently diagnosed with terminal cancer. Reflecting on my life, I'm so grateful for this charity's support over the last 31 years. I hope that hearing my story inspires you to support my fellow blind veterans.
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As a proud veteran, I am so thankful for the support that has made it easier for me to accept and adapt to my unexpected sight loss.
My wish is that future blind veterans will also look back on their lives and be able to appreciate the invaluable support from this charity.
My military career began at the age of 15.
At just 15, I arrived at the gates of a military base in Aldershot, having travelled the length of Wales to follow in my big brother’s footsteps. My 10 years of service in the Army took me to various countries, including Germany, Hong Kong, and Singapore. One unforgettable memory is waking up on the wrong side of the Berlin Wall!
I only discovered my sight loss issues after driving myself to an ophthalmologist appointment, where I was unexpectedly told I would be registered blind. The news left me in complete shock. I experienced overwhelming grief as I learned to accept my new reality. In 1992 I was grateful to find Blind Veterans UK.
"Since that first day at Blind Veterans UK, I've never ever looked back. They've supported me through thick and thin."
How your support helps blind veterans like me
Just knowing that there’s an organisation there to help you when you need it is so important. Blind Veterans UK have taught me so much, and they continue to teach me.
The charity has helped me in so many ways with equipment, training and advice. Something I've deeply valued in recent years is the visits from my regular volunteer. My volunteer is the most amazing man who deserves a gold medal for the support he gives! This support has meant so much to me that I now give back by supporting other blind veterans as a telephone volunteer. I’m incredibly proud to be a volunteer, I’ve come full circle.
There are thousands more blind veterans that need specialist care. Donate today and you'll have a huge impact on their lives.
I was lucky enough to visit the Rustington centre.
When I first visited the centre I was overwhelmed by the welcome. The warmth when you walk through the door is just incredible. All the support there is wonderful - it really is the perfect place to have rehab and respite. Day and night there is someone there to offer help, they understand my sight loss needs and it gives me peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of. I have cherished my stays at the centre with my wife, they've encouraged me to discover activities we thought would be impossible - like golf and wood turning!
Me when I was a young man
Please donate today to support my fellow blind veterans
I'm eager to share my story because I hope that by doing so it might inspire supporters to donate to the charity. Knowing how much of a difference this charity has made in my own life, I hope that other blind veterans can receive the same support.
Please donate today to help more blind veterans to enjoy life after sight loss, just like I have.
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