Story
On 23rd April, I'm taking on the London Marathon for the Royal Society for Blind Children (RSBC). Today there are an estimated 44,000 blind and partially sighted children in England and Wales. Each day, four more children will be diagnosed with sight loss.
- Blind children are twice as likely to be bullied.
- One in three will suffer from depression and other mental health issues.
- 90% will never have a long-term job
- Two-thirds of blind people are living on or below the poverty line.
- Most will never have a meaningful relationship.
As a visual artist and graphic designer, I have spent my life creating media that is consumed visually. As a Creative Director, I've become an advocate for implementing web accessibility for the visually impaired within our clients' websites. On top of the importance of accessibility in my career, I chose to become a father to my son. He was born prematurely and received many medical interventions to brighten his future. Knowing that an organization like the Royal Society For Blind Children exists to aid children inspires me greatly and reminds me of the importance of assisting children from all walks of life who require guidance and support to learn and develop skill sets that will enable them to pave the way for achieving their dreams.
Supporting this fantastic cause also rings true for my journey and how I began running to aid my recovery. In 2013, I suffered an assault that left me with several facial fractures, including my orbital bones, and diminished vision in my left eye. I aim to spread the word about overcoming adversity and turning it into something uniquely positive for each individual. While all our stories are different, we all begin somewhere. As a survivor and father, it is important to me to support the future of children who need intervention, education, and support to ensure they are given every opportunity for success.
RSBC helps blind children to realize their potential. They run a family support service, working with families to help provide the best possible environment for their children to grow and thrive. They also help blind children develop confidence and independence through their 'Live Life Go Further' program, building amazing friendships. The target of £2,500 for each runner will help RSBC support one child for a whole year!