Volunteers Chris and Lorraine on supporting CamSight Peer Support Groups Lorraine said; “My involvement with CamSight has come as a result of the help they gave my Dad when he was diagnosed with Macular Degeneration. I had heard of Camsight, so I encouraged Dad to join the Girton Support Group, where he quickly made friends and welcomed the support of the group leader. Dad died in 2016, and I felt that the best thing I could do to support the organisation that had helped him so much was to become a volunteer. “I really enjoy the opportunity to meet so many lovely elderly people all trying to remain independent and continue to enjoy life as they learn to cope with their visual impairment. I feel privileged that they are willing to share their stories with me. “I never cease to be surprised hearing about the things people have achieved during their lives or that they have taken up since developing sight loss, such as Pilates or bowls. I also love the laughter that is often present at the group meetings. “I firmly believe that volunteering is a two-way process. I hope that I make a positive contribution to the lives of the people I get to know in terms of practical help like offering transport or spending time having a chat with someone over a cup of tea. I do this knowing that I will almost always come away from these meetings feeling uplifted and encouraged by the people I have talked to. “It may not seem like much, but a group member once said that chatting to me had cheered her up, so I always try to remember that even a few minutes of conversation at the right moment can be important. “I have found volunteering so rewarding. I feel that I receive back as much as I give and have developed friendships with so many lovely people who I would not otherwise have met.” Christopher has been volunteering over the last four years after taking early retirement from his career as a member of academic staff at Anglia Ruskin University. After experience in a number of earlier volunteering roles, he was looking for new opportunities to help in the local community and jumped at the chance when he saw the CamSight role available. Talking about his volunteering experience, Chris said, “I continue to be astonished and humbled by the resilience and determination of so many people who live meaningful lives regardless of their visual impairment. “I enjoy meeting and supporting people and find the CamSight groups enjoyable and fulfilling. I get a sense of satisfaction from being able to support CamSight clients. “It is amazing how giving up a small amount of time in your week can go a long way in helping others. It can also help you find meaning and purpose in your own life. Asked about something memorable he takes from the role “Something small but which still fascinates me is how certain biscuits, which are particularly distinctive and bright in colour, are so much easier for people with limited vision to choose and enjoy!" Manage Cookie Preferences