BBC News, South West
BBCA blind man is preparing to climb the tallest mountain in the UK to raise money for a charity training working dogs that assist people impaired by health conditions.
Nigel Timbrell, 60, from Torquay in Devon is planning to climb Ben Nevis in Scotland to support Dogs For Good.
The dogs are trained to help their owners with tasks around the home such as emptying washing machines, picking things up and helping them take off items of clothing.
Mr Timbrell will attempt the climb with the help of two companions, including a qualified mountain guide.
“Mountains are a bit different to hill-walking,” Mr Timbrell said.
“Ben Nevis is what, 4,406 feet? The first half is apparently not too bad. The second half is probably more rocky, narrower paths and a zigzag all the way to the top.
“The hardest part will be coming down,” he added.
The money will be used to train assistance dogs.
Jemima Banks has Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) which means she has chronic pain and her joints dislocate easily.
She also has issues with her heart and blood pressure.
Her assistance dog Albert assists his owner with everyday tasks around the house.
“He’s [Albert] been completely life-changing,” Ms Banks said.
“I now have a whole job and a career and I can go on holiday and travel around and do things that I would never have done before I had Albert.”
“He helps me with things like taking off my jumpers and cardigans so I don’t dislocate my shoulders.
“He picks things up for me, he pulls doors open, he loads the washing machine and just enables me to live an independent life.”
Mr Timbrell has taken part in previous challenges for charity including a tandem bike ride and a sponsored walk.
He is planning to do the climb at the end of October with the exact date depending on the conditions.
Read full article at source
Stay informed about this story by subscribing to our regular Newsletter
