Ann Sunman

My blindness came upon me 4 years ago. Although sudden and complete I had been aware of the possibility.

The change to my lifestyle was enormous. Let me try to describe.

Immediately prior to blindness I was employed as the Purchasing Manager of a hotel group. A fascinating job which I thoroughly enjoyed, meeting lots of people and their various products including tableware, uniforms, stationery and of course food. I had the opportunity to visit numerous production places, which greatly assisted in decisions in what was correct for our hotels and customers.

I went into purchasing after the birth of my daughter in 1991 and prior to this I was in hotel management. This career started with 3 years at college followed by numerous assistant management positions until my last post as General Manager of a 4 star hotel of 120 rooms, banqueting and leisure facilities. During this time the appearance and colour of hotel interiors was crucial, as indeed was that of ones home and of course the countryside wherever you went.

After blindness this is quite different. Although I want to be told of colours and design I rely on touch to form my vision. Smell and sound have also become more important to me.

My skills have had to be developed in getting around the house but when it came to out and about walking, training with a cane and then a guide dog have been vital and so rewarding.

Through my local library and Stockton Adult Education service I have been re-introduced to my computer that has allowed me to communicate with business and friends, which has been vital and so beneficial. This is particularly so in encouraging confidence and independence. I must admit however that it can also be most unnerving especially when the computer swears at me!!

When sighted my leisure time was taken up with family, needlework, keep fit, reading, crosswords (Gosh I miss these) and T.V. When trying to come to terms with blindness I thought "What now?"

Today I am lucky enough to have my family, books on cassette, Braille reading, needlework of different types radio and music and keep fit with a guide and mentor. I have looked at other hobbies such as archery, tandem riding and card or board games but so far not taken anything up.

Life without sight is certainly different and challenging and the support of others essential and invaluable.

I simply hope my progress will continue helping me to improve my quality of life and that of all those around me.

When Anne lost her sight she found she couldn't find any literature for her family to read about blindness, ways to help her what to do so she set about designing an information leaflet, this soon became a series.

They are available in all formats and anyone wanting a copy can contact the office indicating their preferred format e.g. Braille large print or audio.

Alternatively you can download them.