Lee’s journey to independence

A man who lost his sight after meningitis is rebuilding his independence with support from Tameside Council’s Visual Impairment Team and life-changing assistive technology.

Lee Thornton, from Denton, who has been supported for nine years including more than five working closely with Vision Rehabilitation Specialist Jane Keitany, has adapted to life with a rare condition affecting just 1 in 15 million people. After previously leading an active life, including seven years playing semi-professional rugby and working with children with severe illnesses at Bupa, he has shown incredible resilience in gaining his independence back.

With tailored support from the team, Lee is now using new technology to help him manage everyday tasks. He has recently begun using Meta glasses, funded through a grant from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), which can describe surroundings, read letters and support navigation with built-in directions. He is also on the waiting list for long cane training to further improve his mobility and confidence outdoors.

Lee said: “It blew me away. It’s making everything so much easier. I can go shopping on my own, it’s like having a personal assistant with you all the time and it really helps.”

Alongside professional support, Lee’s two sons play a vital role, speaking with him daily and providing ongoing encouragement as he continues to build his independence.

Reflecting on his journey, Lee added to Jane: “Jane, you saved me. It’s really nice to have that caring person around.”

Vision Rehabilitation Specialist Jane said: “I feel so proud. It’s great to see how far people come with our support.”

Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Adult Social Care and Inclusivity, Cllr Jackie Lane, said: “Lee’s story is a powerful example of the difference that personalised support and technology can make in people’s lives. Losing sight can be life-changing, but with the right help, people can regain their independence and confidence. I’m incredibly proud of the work our Visual Impairment Team does every day to support residents like Lee.”

For anyone who may benefit from support, Tameside’s Adult Sensory Service offers advice and assistance for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind or visually impaired. The team are based at Wilshaw House, Wilshaw Lane, Ashton-Under-Lyne, OL7 9QG. You can contact the team on 0161 342 2575 or 07977 489190, or via email at adultsensoryservices@tameside.gov.uk.