When Middlesex Association for the Blind first supported Parry after he began losing his sight, he was struggling emotionally and felt overwhelmed by how quickly his vision was deteriorating. Referred to the charity by rehabilitation officers at Harrow Council, Parry described living in constant fear about how much sight he would lose each day. Once an active businessman and bridge player, he found himself increasingly dependent on his wife, before later becoming her carer after she underwent a triple heart bypass and suffered a stroke. At that point, his spirits were extremely low.

Through support funded by Harrow Giving, MAB was able to reach isolated visually impaired residents like Parry. A key part of that support came from Raheel, who regularly visited him, bringing companionship as well as practical help, including a radio when Parry could no longer watch television. More importantly, Raheel simply listened. Over a series of visits, Parry slowly regained confidence and a renewed sense of purpose. What had once felt like despair gradually gave way to optimism and joy.

Since then, many aspects of Parry’s life have flourished. He now regularly attends a local day centre, where he enjoys speaking with and encouraging others. Following the pandemic, he became the first person to return to his synagogue when it reopened, earning recognition from the congregation for his dedication and positive spirit. He has even taken up dancing there, despite his visual impairment, with others helping him participate fully.

Parry also benefits from the companionship of David, an MAB volunteer who visits him every Friday and takes him out for walks. Today, Parry uses his own experience to encourage others facing sight loss, often sharing two simple pieces of advice: visit an optician regularly and seek support from MAB if needed.

Parry credits much of his transformation to the compassionate support he received from MAB, particularly Raheel’s patience, kindness and willingness to listen during one of the most difficult periods of his life.