Couple trek 54 miles to help Swindon club for visually impaired people

By Barrie Hudson - 4 September 2023

Charity
  • Becky and Uan

    Becky and Uan

Swindon couple Becky and Uan Harrison completed a gruelling sponsored walk in aid of Swindon Bats.

  • A brief pause for Becky

    A brief pause for Becky

The charity is a sports and leisure group supporting blind and partially-sighted people from across Swindon and the surrounding areas.
They meet up and get involved in meaningful, accessible and fun activities together and enjoy a sense of community and belonging.
Husband and wife Becky and Uan raised at least £1,100 in sponsorship via Crowdfunder.
They chose the South West Coast Path after being inspired by the book The Salt Path by Raynor Winn, an autobiographical work detailing a couple's journey along the path in the face of a life-changing medical diagnosis.
Becky and Uan said in a message on the platform ahead of their walk: "Becky was unexpectedly registered Blind in August 2021, due to a rare degenerative eye condition that she did not know she had. 

"This has meant a lot of adjusting and a new way of life for us. It has changed our way of thinking about what's really important, and has given us time to take stock and start to appreciate life to its fullest. 

"One of the things we now appreciate more are the people and activities that bring us joy and purpose.  Becky is always looking for experiences to make her world feel less isolating and small since she lost her sight. 

"And that's where the Swindon Bats have been an absolute life line! 

"In the short time since joining the Bats in November 2022 Becky has been able to join British Blind Sports Ten Pin Bowling League, had a visit to Harry Potter World, was able to try her hand at acoustic riffle shooting and curling, has visited a local Primary school to talk about Para Sports and regularly takes part in a weekly pub quiz."

The couple added: "The Bats have become like family and It's given Becky confidence, courage and a community. 

"Therefore we've decided that we would like to try and give back to this wonderful Group. Bats is a charity that can only run and function if it can secure regular donations and funding from the public. 

"This money goes towards purchasing each Bat team member a bowling ball and t-shirt, towards subsidising trips, days out and events and allows the club to run its various weekly activities."

Further information about Swindon Bats can be found at www.swindonbats.org

 

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