On the 7th of April 2024, I will be running the hilly Sheffield Half Marathon. My mission? To raise funds for the incredible Sheffield Royal Society for the Blind (SRSB).

What's SRSB you may ask...

SRSB supports and empowers those facing sight loss, enhancing the quality of life for visually impaired individuals. From addressing emotional well-being to facilitating participation in sporting events, the charity enables individuals with sight loss to lead fulfilling lives, fostering a positive sense of community.

Why SRSB, you may wonder?

My close friend, Parv, has bravely confronted the challenges of sight loss over the past few years. At the end of 2022 and during 2023, Parv's eyesight started to deteriorate quickly, making life incredibly hard for Parv. I was fortunate enough to live with Parv (she's a great cook btw) and I saw the suffering she had to go through during this grieving process. As she went through this grieving process for her eyesight, I found myself wanting to provide comfort and support, yet often feeling powerless in the face of an unimaginable challenge. Life seemed exceptionally unfair to someone as vibrant and full of love as Parv.

ENTER SRSB....

The transformation in Parv since she began receiving support from SRSB has been amazing. Witnessing her progress has been truly inspiring and I'm so proud of her. SRSB not only provided practical assistance but also facilitated connections with others who share similar experiences. Parv found hope and a supportive community that understood her journey.

While some days remain challenging, Parv is now thriving. Engaging in visually impaired tennis, mastering the use of a long cane and positively shifting her mindset. SRSB played a pivotal role in this transformation, and I am immensely proud to have witnessed the positive impact it has had on Parv's life. She's come so far with the help and support of SRSB and I feel like we've got our fun-loving Parv back but this time she's stronger and a better tennis player!

By supporting my run in the Sheffield Half Marathon, you're contributing to the ongoing work of SRSB, helping others like Parv find strength, resilience, and a sense of community. Together, let's make a difference in the lives of those navigating the complex journey of sight loss.

Lots of Love,

Soph x