Garry climbs a personal mountain after sight loss

ST ANDREWS: Former RAF man m akes video to thank charity for its invaluable help

A former RAF parachute instructor who broke his back then lost his sight through chicken pox is now aiming to become one of the world’s best rock climbers.

Garry Morrison from St Andrews has regained his independence thanks to the support of the Fife Society for the Blind.

The Kirkcaldy-based charity helped him build his confidence with mobility issues, technology, cooking and everyday tasks.

And he has even made the GB Paralympic climbing team.

Now, the 36-year-old is showing his gratitude by helping raise funds for the society – and is encouraging others to do the same.

Garry features in a video explaining how the charity has helped him and many others achieve their goals following sight loss.

A parachute accident in 2003 meant Garry had to learn to walk again, but it was chicken pox in 2015 that changed his life forever.

“Spots started to appear and then it got into my eyes,” he said.

“Within days I had lost my sight in one eye and within a couple of months I had just 4% vision in the other eye. It was very tough.

“To go from being very active to losing my sight was a huge blow.”

Garry added: “Everybody at the society was so kind to me, particularly their mobility trainer and access technology trainer. Their help has allowed me to be independent and pretty much look after myself.

“I have the advantage of being ex-forces and being able to get help from forces’ charities too.

“The society helped me reach out to others as well.

“With the society’s help I’m now as active as ever and part of the Team GB Paralympic rock climbing team.

“They make a real difference to people’s lives locally.”

Fife Society for the Blind chief executive Carl Hodson said Garry was a huge inspiration.

“Many people wrongly believe that we only help older people or that sight issues only affect older people,” he said.

“Garry’s experience shows that losing your sight can happen to anyone of any age.

“While I’m proud we have played some part in helping Garry regain his independence, his determination and drive to take on new challenges and exceed expectations is hugely humbling.”

Garry’s video will be shown at the society’s ball in March, hosted by writer, broadcaster and comedian Hardeep Singh Kohli.

Steven Brown. Picture: Garry Morrison at the climbing centre in St Andrews. He has remained active after losing his sight and is now part of the GB Paralympic rock climbing team.