Individual Spotlight: Marc
A Surrey Choices volunteer, who is registered blind, is preparing to reach new heights by taking on a charity ascent that will see her climb the equivalent of Big Ben.
Lisa Seston, from Weybridge, will be taking on the 96m climb on Sunday 11 December to raise money for the national charity, Guide Dogs UK, which is very close to her heart.
Lisa, aged 36, has had a sight impairment all her life, after being born with a hereditary retinal condition, which continues to degenerate. Despite suffering low vision all her life, almost three years ago Lisa completely lost the sight in her right eye, and heavily relies on her guide dog, Kerry.
Having the assistance of a guide dog has greatly benefitted Lisa’s life and has given her back her independence. Kerry helps Lisa with everyday tasks such going to work, doing the school run, seeing friends and having a social life.
Lisa, a trained chef, volunteers at a café run by Surrey Choices in Staines. The role involves serving customers, preparing food and assisting other volunteers in their duties.
Lisa with her Guide Dog Kerry providing the catering for Macmillan Cancer Awareness Day 2016
Speaking of volunteering at Surrey Choices, Lisa said: “I really enjoy volunteering at Surrey Choices, and I hope to continue to do so in the future. It is because of Kerry that I have been able to get back into catering, which I am very grateful for.”
Lisa has been busy training with her para-climber for the ‘Big Ben’ challenge, which will take place at Xcel Leisure Centre, Walton-on-Thames, at 1.30pm, on Sunday 11 December.
Speaking of the fundraising challenge, Lisa said: “I’ve been training two or three times a week in preparation for the challenge, and I would like to say a big thank you to my para-climber who has been very encouraging and is a fantastic support. I’m getting quite excited for the challenge, and have lots of friends coming to support me on the day.
“The Guide Dogs charity rely solely on generous public fundraising to continue providing a fantastic breeding programme. The guide dogs assist with the mobility and independence of those visually impaired and blind, like myself. Without Kerry and the generosity of the public, I wouldn’t be able to be myself, which is why I want to give something back to the charity.”
Click here to support Lisa today on her Just Giving page
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