Story
I am celebrating 90 years of support for deafblind people in the UK by climbing the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales and cycling the 500 miles in-between to raise awareness of this most isolating and loneliest of conditions.
With less than 3% of vision left I can’t see the terrain I will be walking on, so my wife Louise who is also deaf, will guide me up Ben Nevis on June 18th, Scafell Pike on the 22nd and Snowdon on the 25th. Other good friends will be accompanying us on the three climbs as will Jerry Anderson and Fred Ramon who will also guide me as front riders on the tandem and get me to the foot of Scafell Pike and Snowdon respectively to complete the challenge.
Not being able to see bends in the roads or be aware of oncoming traffic particularly on the fast descents means I place all my trust in my companions, not to mention many miles of inane conversation!
“Sadly the incidence of deafblindness is growing in the UK with over 400,000 people now struggling with isolation and the everyday challenges of normal life. I want to raise awareness and let people understand that whilst dual sensory loss is so isolating for so many, it doesn’t have to be. With the right support deafblind people can lead full and active lives and still fulfil their dreams.
I hope that by completing this challenge, I can inspire others to seek help and support from DBUK and achieve their own ambitions whatever they may be.”
As Helen Keller once said, “Life is either a great adventure, or nothing.”
Thank you for supporting Deafblind UK.
Bob Nolan