To many a new year means a new start, and we’re no different. 2021 was a great year for us, business went well and we brought our dream home and were in the throws of planning the renovation/extension. We welcomed in 2022 with excitement for the busy year ahead, not knowing what 2022 had in store for us.

A couple of days later I made Sarah a cup of tea as I do every morning, I took it upstairs and was overcome with what I can only describe as a strange feeling. My brain felt foggy, my arms stopped working and I lost my speech. At this point Sarah realised something was wrong and dialled 999 as I presented all the signs of a stroke. 30 seconds later I called Sarah’s name. Within 20 minutes she was on the phone to an emergency doctor and this led to every test imaginable inc MRI, ECG, Bloods etc and I was told not to drive for 10 days whilst they investigated the cause. All the tests came back clear which led to more tests including a very thorough eye test… It was during this eye test that the optician turned to me and said “I think you have Retinitis Pigmentosa”. In the same sentence she told me she’d been an optician for over 20 years and hadn’t had a patient with it in that time.

Retinitis Pigmentosa is a rare genetic degenerative eye disease for which there is no treatment or cure. RP will gradually take from you, your peripheral vision, your night vision and eventually your sight.

It was here I was referred to Moorfields Eye Hospital in London and continue to be under their care whilst they monitor my condition.

As a result of my diagnosis my driving license was revoked in November 2022 which had a huge impact on my life, my career and my wellbeing. Anyone that knows me, knows what this means to me.

After a couple of dark months I got a random phone call on January 12th. I didn’t know it at the time but this call would change my entire outlook on my new life. Zsuzsanna was calling from Support 4 Sight and this was the start of getting the support we needed. Over the next few months her commitment and continued support was the lifeline that got me back on track and it's now my time to give something back!

Myself and my father-in-law Steve are taking part in RideLondon on May 26th 2024 where we will complete a 100 mile bike ride to raise support and awareness for Support 4 Sight. So please help me raise as much money as possible for a wonderful charity.