Angela experiencing first hand, blindness...

Angela Rippon, one of the best known faces and voices in British broadcasting, showed her support for St Dunstan’s Blind Heroes Week by experiencing firsthand what it is like to live without sight. Supported by one of the St Dunstan’s Rehabilitation Officers for Visually Impaired People (ROVIs), Angela wore a sleep shade to simulate total blindness. Guided by the ROVI, she began to re-learn skills such as using a kitchen safely, making a cup of tea and navigating stairs and doors.

Angela said:
“I wonder how many of us have thought about what it is like to be blind or partially sighted.  How would we get to the shops, make our morning cup of coffee or even get dressed? I have undertaken a Day Without Sight to support St Dunstan’s Blind Heroes Week, which honours blind heroes and allows us to give something back to recognise their sacrifice.

“I’m hoping to raise awareness of the wonderful work that St Dunstan’s does to help blind ex-Service men and women to ‘re-learn’ many of the basic tasks that most of us take for granted, enabling them to lead fulfilling and independent lives. If you would like to show your support for Blind Heroes. Please visit www.helpblindheroes.org.uk, or call 0300 111 2233.”

About Blind Heroes Week
St Dunstan’s Blind Heroes Week took place between 22 and 28 of June to honour those who have served their country and have won a greater battle – that of living full and independent lives after losing their sight. All of our St Dunstaners have served for their country and have since lost their sight, either in combat or in later years. Blind Heroes Week is about giving these inspirational men and women the recognition and support they deserve. If you would like to show your support for Blind Heroes, please visit www.helpblindheroes.org.uk, or call 0300 111 2233