Blind man to take on marathon challenge

9:02am Monday 16th April 2007

A blind man is running the London Marathon to raise awareness about a condition which cost him his eyesight.

Keith Turner, 39, suffered childhood glaucoma and went completely blind when he was 18.

This will be his third marathon and he hopes to run it, along with guide runner Michael Miller, an hour faster than his first.

Mr Turner, of Manor Farm, Brighton, is taking part on behalf of the International Glaucoma Association (IGA).

He said: "My son also suffers from childhood glaucoma but unlike me, thankfully, he can see well due to early diagnosis and continued treatment of the condition.

"During the time that Taylor has been growing up, the IGA has given me much support and advice of which I am very grateful for.

"Although childhood glaucoma is rare, there is a more common type of glaucoma which two per cent of adults over the age of 40 will have.

"This type of glaucoma will also destroy your sight. To be blunt, you could end up as blind as me."

Mr Turner has been training for the marathon on Sunday with his friend Sue Miller who will also be running.

Anyone wanting to sponsor him should make a cheque payable to the International Glaucoma Association and write Keith Turner, London Marathon, on the back.

Cheques should be sent to Woodcoat House, 15 Highpoint Business Village, Henwood, Ashford, Kent TN24 8DH.

Glaucoma can be treated with early diagnosis.

People who are at a higher risk of having the condition include people aged 40 and over, those with a family history of the condition, diabetics, and people who are African-Caribbean in origin.

For more information visit www.glaucoma-association.com or call the IGA Sightline on 01233 648170.

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