A man from London will be riding 60 miles across his home city to raise money for Blind Veterans UK, the national charity for vision-impaired ex-Service men and women, who he works for.
Rob Dunn, who is 45, is taking part in Ride London 2023 on 28 May, the ride sets off from Victoria Embankment and ends at Tower Bridge.
This will not be the first time that Rob has taken on this challenge but back in 2019 when he first pedalled the traffic-free course, he was struggling with an injury sustained in a road traffic accident.
Rob says:
“When I was ten-years-old I was hit by a car which severely fractured my leg and left me with a brain injury that affects my memory.
“At the time my leg was re-set but was misaligned. The first time I undertook this challenge I hoped I would’ve performed better but my injury slowed me down. I’ve recently undergone an operation to put this right and am excited to get out there and test myself. I’m hoping this time that I’ll finish in around five hours.”
Rob has been employed by Blind Veterans UK for four years. He plays a vital role in supporting the charity’s fundraising and supporter care team by ensuring information about incoming donations is recorded correctly. Outside of work Rob also helps vision-impaired people by volunteering for the Redbridge Talking Newspaper.
He says:
“In my role at Blind Veterans UK, I get to see all the amazing reasons that people donate to the charity. I get a real feel for what the charity means to people which has definitely spurred me on to do my own fundraising challenge, but as well as that I have my own personal reasons for wanting to thank the charity.
“As a result of my brain injury, I have difficulty with my memory; Blind Veterans UK has been a fantastic employer, they are fully inclusive and have made adjustments which have enabled me to establish myself in the workplace despite the barriers my brain injury presents.
“I will be proud and relieved when the 60 miles is over. Knowing I’m doing something to help our blind veterans will keep me going along the way.”
If you would like to support Rob and help him reach his £300 fundraising target please visit: justgiving.com/fundraising/rob-dunn21
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/support
