Blind East Lothian woman on 'staying connected to the world' after feeling 'unsafe'
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An East Lothian woman was born blind has said 'even the most positive person needs help'.
Freda Steel, now 68-years-old, enrolled with the Royal Blind School in Edinburgh at the age of five. After her 'world was opened up', she learned how to cook, clean and move around safely - as well as gaining confidence.
Now living in Musselburgh, Freda faced new challenges later in life. She got the help she needed from Sight Scotland, and is now urging those who can to donate to the charity.
Reflecting on her journey, Freda (who is affectionately known by her loved ones as Mouse), said: "I was just a wee girl from Lanarkshire, and they [Royal Blind School] opened up the world to me.
"I learned everything other children did, but also how to live independently – how to cook, clean, move about safely. They gave me the confidence to just get on with life."
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60 years later, Freda found herself in need of help again. She continued: 'I still cherish my independence, but I was no longer able to easily go out alone.
"I can't use my long cane due to nerve damage in my fingers, and with all the street furniture, bins, new bus stops and low kerbs, it became increasingly difficult. I just didn't feel safe, so I decided to get back in touch with Sight Scotland, and they were there for me just like they were 60 years earlier.
'They introduced me to Tam, a volunteer befriender, and I can't tell you how much of a difference that has made. Every Tuesday, Tam comes to see me. We go for a walk, have a coffee, go shopping, and have a good chat. It keeps me connected to the world. He's become a true friend."
Freda hopes that by sharing her story, others will be encouraged to support Sight Scotland.
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Freda adds: "I love my wee house, I do everything myself, all the cooking, the cleaning and I'm so proud of that. I've always tried to stay positive. But even the most positive person needs help sometimes. Sight Scotland has been there for me every step of the way.
"I want people to know what this charity does. They don't just offer practical help, they offer hope. They've been there for me my whole life. If my story can inspire just one person to donate, then it's worth sharing. Sight Scotland is a lifeline, and we need to make sure it's there for everyone who needs it."
Karen Hodgins, Head of Fundraising and Audience Development, shares: "The need for support is growing, and it's vital that everyone living with sight loss can access help when they need it most.
"Every year, we respond to thousands of calls from people like Freda, but we rely on public support to continue."
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