2007 MCofS Visually Impaired CourseOne Spirited Lady, one inspired VisionGenerously supported by the Scottish Mountaineering Trust The 2007 course will again be held at Glenmore Lodge over 5 days from 9th September with 10 places available at a cost of £135 each to participants. Sighted Helpers Wanted The course is only possible with the help of volunteers to act as sighted guides. This may suit those undergoing ML/MIA training. All we ask is a small contribution to B&B costs of £75. Contact me, Norma Davidson, T: 01356 660 242 E: piper.norma@virgin.net |
'Dreams' really can come true.By Norma Davidson They said, "you can't do that", but who are they and what grounds do they have to deny someone the opportunity to fulfill a lifetime ambition. That ambition was fulfilled for more than one individual last September.
At times you had to keep reminding yourself that some of these people had no sight (never had) but their interest of what was around them was amazing. Wanting to know what the landscape was like, learning what the different smells were (sometimes not pleasant) and requesting the description of wild flowers and vegetation. One of the highlights for me had to be seeing the delight of one individual when she was told that she could go out in a river kayak- a lifetime ambition, which up to this point had been denied. She was just so overcome with delight, but under the careful and skilled directions (given by the instructors) we soon had one happy lady paddling confidently in Loch Morlich. Another highlight was that two participants requested to be in the same Canadian canoe en route to a rough camping site (for an overnight expedition) down the River Spey. Something which could be quite daunting for anyone, however this was even more daunting as the pair were both completely blind and both saw it as a personal challenge. Another dream was fulfilled. All in all a brilliant week, at times very emotional. I do not think that the instructors could have asked for anything more from these guys and I am proud to think that there are people out there who are willing to give up a week to come along as a volunteer and act as eyes. Due to the support of these special people none of the eight participants were denied! I have always felt very strongly about the course since I became involved four years ago (as a participant) and those feelings just keep getting stronger and stronger each year. However, when an instructor with many years of experience is reduced to tears with the admiration for these people who have so much confidence and self believe within themselves, YOU KNOW YOU'VE GOT IT RIGHT! 'Ain't no hill or mountain we can't climb'
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We had eight people sign up for the mountaineering course for visually impaired people at Glenmore Lodge last year. Five had some sight, three were totally blind (no guide dogs either) yet it was obvious from day one that they were all eager and determined to try anything that the instructors threw at them. Whether that was walking in the Cairngorms, rock-climbing, abseiling or paddling in the water, their sight loss was not going to be a barrier.
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