Miss-Delectable
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http://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk/ViewArticle2.aspx?SectionID=845&ArticleID=1634524
CAMPAIGNERS for a leading deafblind charity aim to put the devastating condition firmly on the map, with a special rally for sufferers.
As bosses for Deafblind UK revealed plans to stage a fun day aimed at helping those living without hearing and sight, they staged a hard-hitting realisation of what life for sufferers can be like, with the help of an MEP.
At Deafblind UK's headquarters in Hampton, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire MEP Richard Howitt was challenged to perform everyday tasks wearing blackout goggles and ear defenders, as a simulation of the deafblind experience.
Taking part in the Kitchen Challenge, he had to perform a task most of us take for granted – picking up a bottle of water, pouring himself a drink and drinking it.
And he realised it was not an easy task, especially as the simulation featured dozens of other bottles lying around, which in real life could contain hazardous liquids, such as bleach.
Blindfolded Mr Howitt was also challenged to distinguish between a can of beans and a can of dog food – both are almost identical to someone who cannot see.
Mr Howitt, who managed to pass the tests, said he now has special regard for deafblind people and what they go through.
He said: "It was a bit scary and I felt very, very dependent on the person who was guiding me. It makes you realise that if you are in that situation you are reliant on other people because otherwise you could come to serious harm.
"I had to feel my way around, and for deafblind people, human contact is their link to the outside world.
"I'm very proud of Deafblind UK for raising awareness of the condition like this. I hope we can get more people to support this first-class organisation."
Meanwhile, charity workers hope this year's rally, being held at the centre on Thursday, will tackle a lack of understanding about the issue but also bolster the independence of those suffering with the condition, as many activities can be completed alone.
With a movie theme, the centre will be split into several sections of film genres on the day, including horror and sport areas.
In the action/adventure section, deaf-blind people will get a chance to drive a car with restricted speed and steering, all under the careful eye of professional instructors.
In addition, deaf-blind people will be able to have their palms read by a clairvoyant, relax with an Indian head massage and get hands-on experience of animals, with some live sheep on the premises.
The event will focus on giving deafblind people a day to remember, as charity representatives are concerned about limited community facilities for deafblind people.
However, non-sufferers are also invited to attend to learn about the condition.
Deafblind UK spokeswoman Jo Johnson said: "Lots of people come here, so we aim to put deafblindness on the agenda.
"People know a lot about being deaf and a lot about being blind, but few people are aware there's a dual loss.
"We want to help more people to understand the condition."
CAMPAIGNERS for a leading deafblind charity aim to put the devastating condition firmly on the map, with a special rally for sufferers.
As bosses for Deafblind UK revealed plans to stage a fun day aimed at helping those living without hearing and sight, they staged a hard-hitting realisation of what life for sufferers can be like, with the help of an MEP.
At Deafblind UK's headquarters in Hampton, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire MEP Richard Howitt was challenged to perform everyday tasks wearing blackout goggles and ear defenders, as a simulation of the deafblind experience.
Taking part in the Kitchen Challenge, he had to perform a task most of us take for granted – picking up a bottle of water, pouring himself a drink and drinking it.
And he realised it was not an easy task, especially as the simulation featured dozens of other bottles lying around, which in real life could contain hazardous liquids, such as bleach.
Blindfolded Mr Howitt was also challenged to distinguish between a can of beans and a can of dog food – both are almost identical to someone who cannot see.
Mr Howitt, who managed to pass the tests, said he now has special regard for deafblind people and what they go through.
He said: "It was a bit scary and I felt very, very dependent on the person who was guiding me. It makes you realise that if you are in that situation you are reliant on other people because otherwise you could come to serious harm.
"I had to feel my way around, and for deafblind people, human contact is their link to the outside world.
"I'm very proud of Deafblind UK for raising awareness of the condition like this. I hope we can get more people to support this first-class organisation."
Meanwhile, charity workers hope this year's rally, being held at the centre on Thursday, will tackle a lack of understanding about the issue but also bolster the independence of those suffering with the condition, as many activities can be completed alone.
With a movie theme, the centre will be split into several sections of film genres on the day, including horror and sport areas.
In the action/adventure section, deaf-blind people will get a chance to drive a car with restricted speed and steering, all under the careful eye of professional instructors.
In addition, deaf-blind people will be able to have their palms read by a clairvoyant, relax with an Indian head massage and get hands-on experience of animals, with some live sheep on the premises.
The event will focus on giving deafblind people a day to remember, as charity representatives are concerned about limited community facilities for deafblind people.
However, non-sufferers are also invited to attend to learn about the condition.
Deafblind UK spokeswoman Jo Johnson said: "Lots of people come here, so we aim to put deafblindness on the agenda.
"People know a lot about being deaf and a lot about being blind, but few people are aware there's a dual loss.
"We want to help more people to understand the condition."