A team of eye health professionals has completed a half marathon wearing sight loss simulation glasses, raising funds and awareness for local charity Suffolk Sight.
The group from ophthalmology provider Newmedica Suffolk completed the 13.1-mile Orwell Challenge on 28 June while wearing spectacles designed to simulate sight loss.
"By completing the course in simulation glasses that mimic conditions including cataract and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), we aimed to give others a clearer understanding of the realities of sight loss," says Laura Roberds, senior industry engagement manager at Newmedica Suffolk.
"Wearing simulation glasses made the challenge significantly harder - but that’s exactly the point. This is about more than completing a half marathon. It’s about helping people understand what living with sight loss can feel like and why practical, community-based support is so important."
Funds raised will support Suffolk Sight in recruiting a Community Sight Loss Advisor, a role focused on helping people with visual impairment maintain independence, rebuild confidence and navigate daily life.
Ms Roberds adds: "As a leading NHS and private ophthalmology provider, we’re proud to be going the extra mile for eye health and for our charity partner. Suffolk Sight has a direct impact on people’s independence and quality of life."
The team completed the challenge in Newmedica-branded kit, using the event as a platform to spark wider conversations about eye health, early intervention and access to support services.
Donations to support the team’s fundraising efforts can be made via their dedicated page: https://lnkd.in/eUi3U5ma
