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Marita’s Story

Marita is a mum of two who wants the freedom, safety and independence to bring up her children

When Ryan, Marita’s husband, experienced walking blindfolded with a Guide Dog, he understood how crucial a Guide Dog was to keep his wife safe.

Marita, now 34, was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa 17 years ago. She has tunnel vision and cannot see a thing at night. Her vision has worsened to the point where she is now legally blind.

I couldn’t drive my children anywhere anymore

“When I was 30, it hit me. I’d become a mum of two and I couldn’t drive my children anywhere anymore. Taking them to the shops, to school or to birthday parties took a lot of planning, time and effort.

“I had to plan for things other mums wouldn’t even give a second thought.”

Marita will have to wait for months before a dog is trained and matched to her, but knowing that we can start the training today will give her hope and confidence in the future.

A Guide Dog will give Marita the independence, safety and pace of life she requires to travel, work, and look after her young daughters.

A Guide Dog will help Marita live her life the way she wants to – and not be limited by her vision impairment any more than she has to.

“As my eyes get worse and my kids get older, I find that I’m having to make the transition from the white cane to a Guide Dog. I need to be able to move as freely and as quickly as possible.

“I understand my limitations but I still want to do everything I can to make life as normal as possible for my children.”