Meet Dale, the man doing 100K in a day!
Dale’s life has transformed dramatically in the last two years. At age 47, he was faced with a life-changing diagnosis of bilateral central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). This left him with no sight in his left eye (since replaced with a prosthetic) and 40% blurry vision in his right.
“When I lost vision, I made a promise to myself to live my best life and enjoy every moment,” said Dale. He wasted no time in contacting Vision Australia to receive support including Orientation & Mobility training (O&M), adaptive technology, and peer networks. "Learning to adapt was everything," he reflects. "It’s not just about navigating life; it’s about thriving."
Fitness also became a transformative part of Dale’s life since his diagnosis. His doctors recommended walking to improve his vascular health but fuelled by positivity and resilience, Dale wanted to take up running. He’s since become an adaptive runner, completing half marathons and 35km trail events with his guide.
This April, Dale won’t just be running 100K over a month — he’ll be doing it in a single day! He plans to walk 100 kilometres on a treadmill at a local gym in Ballarat. "We’re starting at midnight and smashing out 100Ks in one day!" he says with enthusiasm.
This amazing effort will help Dale prepare for Vision Australia’s Trek for Vision around New Zealand’s Abel Tasman Track. The challenge is both a personal milestone and a fundraiser for Vision Australia’s Quality Living Groups.
Dale’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of community. His story inspires others to push beyond their limits and embrace life, no matter the challenges.
Dale credits his O&M specialist, Sharon Taylor, for helping him regain independence early on. Now, his Seeing Eye Dog Yana is his constant companion, ensuring he avoids obstacles and stays safe. "Yana and I are learning together," Dale shares. "She’s incredible at helping me find things like stoplight buttons and keeping me on track in the community."
"Vision Australia is more than an organisation. It’s a support network, a community of people who understand what you’re going through. They’ve helped me live life to the fullest."
About Vision Australia
Vision Australia is a leading national provider of blindness and low vision services in Australia. We work in partnership with Australians who are blind or have low vision to help them achieve the possibilities they choose in life.
We support more than 25,500 people of all ages and life stages, and circumstances. We do this through 35 Vision Australia centres in Victoria, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia; and through outreach programs in the Northern Territory and Tasmania.
We are a not-for-profit organisation and a major participant and partner in the international blindness community.
You can read more about Vision Australia on the website here.
