Sophie Stowell and Charlie Davidmann are doing the RNIB Iceland Challenge Trek in October to raise money for the Royal National Institute of Blind People.

This is a cause very close to our hearts and we would appreciate it if you would take a few minutes to read below, as to why we need your help. Thank you in advance for taking the time to read this.

For those who don’t know me, my name is Sophie, I am 23 years old, and I am visually impaired. I was diagnosed with Stargardt’s Macular Dystrophy when I was 13; a genetic condition which is causing the progressive deterioration and loss of my central vision. For over 10 years now I have been faced with a daily battle caused by my sight loss, making simple tasks that I had once taken for granted, a huge challenge.

I worked hard at school as I was adamant that my visual impairment would not stop me from doing what I wanted. The transition to university was difficult, the reality of my condition hit hard. I was forced to navigate a new city, make new friends, and study in a more independent environment whilst at the same time struggling with my deteriorating vision. My disability was impacting on every aspect of my life, causing low self-confidence, insecurities and an underlying fear of what the future held.

In August 2015 I began my first full time job, at Barclays. Again I was forced to deal head on with my disability, trying to adapt to a new environment, new people and new demands. I found this transition and lifestyle change very hard to cope with. I was first diagnosed with depression in December; it manifested itself as a constant feeling of sickness and being on the edge of tears. I began to feel very isolated as it caused me to avoid social interaction. The situation spiralled out of control and my fears about the future overwhelmed me.

Fortunately I was lucky enough to receive support from my boyfriend Charlie, my family, and my friends who helped me to get the therapy I needed. This transformed my life. Admittedly, it’s still a struggle but I have learnt ways to cope and feel much happier now. However, I am aware that there are many people dealing with the same sight loss difficulties as myself who have not been fortunate enough to receive the same support that I have. This is where you can help.

I met Sophie in 2009 and was immediately impressed by her determination and resilience. However, her recent struggle with depression has shown me that sometimes, external help really is needed. She has been fortunate but others are not so lucky.

It costs the RNIB £500 to provide an individual who is losing their vision with 6 therapy sessions. I know from Sophie’s experience the positive benefit that this help can have on a person’s life.

That is why Sophie and I have chosen to do the RNIB Iceland Challenge, trekking for three days in arctic temperatures (over our birthday weekend!) in October. We want to spread awareness and raise as much money as we can to change the lives of as many individuals as possible.

This is where you can help us – please sponsor us, support us and share our story.

Your donation won’t bring back the sight of these individuals, but it will provide essential support to improve the quality of life of those like Sophie, that are being faced with continuing sight loss.

Thank you, 

Charlie & Sophie