A man who has been left practically blind after "suffering at the hands of his family" is doing a sponsored swim today (Saturday).
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59-year-old John Holdoway told Isle of Wight Radio he lost his sight a very long time ago after he suffered from ‘shaking baby syndrome. It subsequently resulted in him having a subdural haematoma and a stroke.
After the incident, John lost his sight in his right eye and gas tunnel vision in his left eye, which has caused John great problems throughout his life.
He was forced to give up work as the head sommelier in a 360 cover hotel restaurant around two decades ago “because of complications”. He also worked for the Wessex Cancer Trust.
John wants to give something back to society, which is why he is taking on the 50 length challenger, to raise money for a charity close to his heart.
He told Isle of Wight Radio:
“I suffered at the hands of my family, let's say because I won’t say which member: ‘shaking baby syndrome’, which caused a subdural haematoma and also after that I suffered a stroke which has caused big problems for me throughout my life, meaning I can’t do some things other people can do.”
He has never done any fundraising before but is confident he can complete the swim in the allocated time of 12pm until 2pm.
He told Isle of Wight Radio:
“I have always been able to swim and was blessed, all of our house were taught to swim from an early age and I have always enjoyed it. Because of the weakness in my left side, it does help me because I can then hopefully strengthen the muscles so I can then carry on a normal life.”
John will take on the challenge next Saturday (9 October) at the West Wight Sports and Community Centre. He tries to go down to the site in Freshwater at least once a month.
Sight for Wight supports John by giving him “help and guidance” and he himself also volunteers as a befriender, which involves talking to members and offering them advice.
To sponsor John contact Sight For Wight on 01983 522205 or call John directly on 07572 204987
WATCH A VIDEO OF JOHN BELOW...
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