John's story
John Vale, from Coventry, is leaving RNIB a gift in his Will as a way to say thanks for the help and support he has received since losing his sight in 2002.
"I no longer had a reason to live, I was suicidal. I couldn't even make a cup of coffee for myself... I remember saying to a friend 'If it's going to be like this for the rest of my life, then I'm going to top myself'. But then I contacted RNIB and they supported me in so many directions it's unbelievable."
How RNIB helped John
We gave John practical support and advice and introduced him to useful equipment that would make life easier, such as talking clocks and watches. He subsequently got Audio Description and Browse Aloud, as well as joining our Talking Books Service.
We supported John with Access to Work, which led him to getting a speech programme for his computer and My Reader that gave him the independence to read his own letters.
We also helped him out with his claim for DLA. He was granted the higher rate mobility allowance, which meant he could afford a mobility car for his colleague to drive him around.
John is extremely grateful for the help that we gave him to get back on his feet:
"RNIB is such an important organisation; I really don't know where I'd be without them. They have given me so much support over the years - they even gave me guidance when I wanted to write my Will. Put simply, RNIB is a godsend."
Thanks to the people who leave us gifts in their Wills we are able to help people like John get back on their feet and live independent and fulfilled lives.