As part of Deafblind Scotland’s Dare to Dream strategy we’ve asked members to share their dreams and ambitions. Chris tells us all about his return to running:
“I used to enjoy running and have completed a few 10K’s and the Glasgow half marathon in 2010. But with deteriorating vision and new issues with my balance I stopped running soon after that. There have been lots of times I’ve thought about running again but never expected I’d be able to do it.
In March 2020 I was diagnosed with Riboflavin Transporter Deficiency (RTD) type 2, which is the cause of my deafblindness, and that gave me the drive to fight back even harder. So with guide Adam supporting me, we tried running laps of a playing field. It was tough going at first and I felt anxious, unsure if I would manage. But we stuck at it and things got easier and easier until running laps got a bit boring! Now we are running around 5K on trails and routes, up hills and different terrain, which is much more satisfying. I’m cross-training running with Judo and really feeling the benefits. Physically and mentally it is so rewarding. Now I know I can do it, the next target is a 10K. From there… who knows?”
Thanks to Chris for sharing his amazing story. We hope this will inspire you to share your story. Please get in touch with Julie, by emailing communityfundraiser@dbscotland.org.uk to share your Dare to Dream.