A 20-year-old woman from East Sussex is running her first half-marathon to raise money for Blind Veterans UK, the national charity for vision-impaired ex-Service men and women that has provided support to her grandad.
Grace Russell, from Seaford, will be putting on her running shoes for the Richmond Half Marathon on 22 September.
She says:
“My grandad, Peter, was registered blind last year and in June 2023 he began to receive the support of Blind Veterans UK. I wanted to do something to show my support to the charity as I’ve seen first hand the amazing work they do rehabilitating and supporting individuals who have given us so much.
“The work they do is so important, making sure the heroes among us don’t lose their independence. I feel very grateful to be in a position to do this for others.”
This will be Grace’s first long-distance run although running is some what of a family affair with both her parents having run several marathons.
Grace says:
“At the start I found running hard and even 10km seemed out of the question, but slowly with support and encouragement, I have discovered a new love for running.
“I have chosen to run the Richmond half marathon as my dad has previously run here and expressed how beautiful it is.
“I think the hardest part will be the nerves before the race. I’m beyond grateful to be doing my first race with my super supportive boyfriend and knowing my family will be at the finish line will make it all worth it.”
Grace’s grandad Peter served in the Royal Navy between 1958 and 1980. He has macular degeneration in both eyes.
He says: “I’m very proud of Grace and I know she will do incredibly well. It means a lot to me that she has chosen to raise money for Blind Veterans UK as they have been there for me since I lost my sight. They help me to attend regular coffee mornings and other social events which get me out and about.”
Grace has already raised £2,513 for Blind Veterans UK. If you would like to support her fundraising please visit his Just Giving page: justgiving.com/page/grace-russell-blind-veterans-uk
If you would like to take on your own challenge for Blind Veterans UK visit the charity’s website: blindveterans.org.uk/fundraise
Blind Veterans UK supports thousands of blind veterans across the country, but knows there are many thousands more who still need its support to rebuild their lives after sight loss.
If you, or someone you know, served in the Armed Forces, including National Service, and are now struggling with sight loss, then please get in touch. Call 0800 389 7979 or visit blindveterans.org.uk/gethelp
