Lt-Governor Vice Admiral Sir Ian Corder and Lady Corder visited the association’s centre at Four Cabot, Rue de la Bouillerie, St Andrew’s – which is also celebrating its 20th year in operation.
Sir Ian and Lady Corder were invited by the association’s patron, Lady Bridget Carey.
Vision support advisor Debbie Clarke said the guests were invited so they could understand what goes on at the centre.
‘We are just really trying to let people know where we are and what we do.
‘It’s a service people are not really aware of until they need it, so we want to let people know we are here to support,’ she said.
Ms Clarke said that when someone was diagnosed with an eye condition, particularly those that lead to blindness, it could be like a bereavement and the Blind Association was there for them.
Ms Clarke said many people were involved in the running of the association.
‘We have the trustees who are important and keep it going financially and have all the volunteers and drivers bringing people here.’
One trustee is Hugh Bacon, who has worked as a consultant ophthalmic surgeon.
‘I explain the medical side of the eye problems and advise on what can be done,’ he said.
Mr Bacon said the association also regularly provided a social environment for those it supports to come together.
‘They have different activities going on such as quizzes, arts and crafts, tea and cake, all sorts,’ he said.
During Sir Ian and Lady Corder’s visit, some of the women the association supports were making Easter bunnies ahead of the holiday season.
Molly Hawden has been coming to the association for so long she could not remember how many years it had been.
She first had contact with the association and its founders when she was young and had a condition that meant she lost an eye.
‘It’s been a help to come here on Thursday afternoons and the room has recently all been done out,’ said Ms Hawden.
She was making an Easter bunny to give to her great nephew.
Enid Norman had also been coming to the centre for a long time.
‘It’s a big help. It’s social and there’s always something to do, I love coming and it’s nice to meet people,’ she said.
n The centre is open 8-11am Monday to Friday and appointments can be arranged for at home or at the centre and social meetings are held on Thursday afternoons.
For more information call 236933 or email Debbie@gba.org.gg.
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