Helen Reed has been coming to Beacon for over five years now and lives with retinitis pigmentosa. Before coming here, Helen used to stay at home and rarely went out. It was only when she was referred to Beacon by social services did her life change for the better.
Helen explains: “I never was on out-going type of person but after coming to Beacon it allowed me to become more outgoing and socialable. What I like about the charity is that you get to meet people who are in the same boat as you which has helped me immensely.”
Some of the activities which Helen takes part includes, cookery class, craft and quizzes which she is a whizz at. For National Eye Health Week, we are raising awareness of sight loss and why eye health is important to our service users.
“National Eye Health Week is important to me because I want people to know my sight loss does not define me but makes me who I am. Beacon has helped discover the real me.
“The support from staff and volunteers has helped me push my boundaries. Because of my sight condition and my epilepsy, I don’t really get to use the kitchen at home, though whenever I join in on the cookery classes I get to try out new recipes. Coming to Beacon has allowed me broaden my horizons and not limit myself.”
People from all walks of life come through our doors with a range of disabilities, but Beacon treats everyone as an individual that requires tailored support. Our services allow people to live more independently and confidently. Beacon helps people live with their disability and realise their full potential.
“Anyone considering joining, should not hesitate. Maybe even come down and see for yourself the difference Beacon makes. You have nothing to lose by giving it a go or just coming over to check out the facilities. National Eye Health Week is the perfect time to make a positive change in your life.”
If you would like to find out more about Beacon and how we support visually impaired people, please read more on our website or get in touch via: enquiries@beaconvision.org