Blind Lawyer and Boss Conquer 24 Peaks in 24 Hours for Charity Fundraising
A remarkable challenge is set to take place as blind lawyer Michael Smith and his boss Jack Stacy gear up to conquer 24 mountain peaks in just 24 hours. The duo aims to push their bodies to the limit while raising £150,000 for SeeAbility, a charity that provides support for individuals living with sight loss, learning disabilities, or autism.
A Test of Strength and Determination
Michael Smith, a 33-year-old resident of Finsbury Park in north London, has been living with Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) for the past 15 years. This inherited condition has caused him to lose a significant portion of his central eyesight, leaving him with only around 10% vision. Despite these challenges, Smith remains determined to show that individuals with disabilities can push themselves beyond their limits.
For this grueling challenge, Smith will be tethered to his work colleague Jack Stacy, a 38-year-old resident of London Bridge. The two will traverse the rugged terrain of the Lake District, taking on iconic peaks such as England’s tallest peak, Scafell Pike. The task at hand is not only physically demanding but also requires a high level of focus, communication, and trust between the two men.
Overcoming Adversity with Determination
Smith’s journey with sight loss began in 2009 while he was pursuing his studies at Barts and The London School of Medicine. The realization that he could no longer see the ball while playing football led him to seek medical advice, which ultimately led to the diagnosis of LHON. Despite the devastating news that he would permanently lose his central eyesight, Smith refused to let it define his future.
With the support of organizations like SeeAbility, Smith regained his sense of ambition and returned to university to pursue a career in law. The challenges of living with sight loss have been significant, impacting his ability to navigate independently and engage with the world around him. However, Smith’s determination and resilience have driven him to defy the odds and pursue his dreams.
Guiding Light in the Darkness
Jack Stacy, who serves as the chairman of SeeAbility, has been a guiding force in Smith’s journey. The upcoming challenge of conquering 24 peaks in 24 hours is not only a test of physical endurance but also a testament to the strong bond between the two men. Stacy acknowledges the immense responsibility of ensuring clear communication and guidance throughout the arduous trek.
As they prepare to embark on this monumental challenge, Smith and Stacy are not only raising funds for a worthy cause but also inspiring individuals with disabilities to pursue their ambitions. Smith’s message is clear: with the right support and determination, anything is possible, even summiting 24 peaks in just 24 hours.
To support Michael Smith and Jack Stacy in their fundraising efforts for SeeAbility, visit their official fundraising page at https://www.justgiving.com/page/jackandmichael. To learn more about the impactful work of SeeAbility, visit their website at https://www.seeability.org/.
