Blind Veterans Go Head To Head In International Contest

Blind military veterans from the US and South Africa have travelled to the UK for a week of activities with their British counterparts.

It is part of Project Gemini, a programme co-run by Blind Veterans UK which enables participants to share experiences and knowledge.

Former Major Tom Zampieri, a legally blind veteran himself, is the trip coordinator.

He said:

“This week is so important because the three groups of veterans are able to share helpful hints about coping with blindness and the “war stories” that are part of their personal adjustment to blindness and subsequent rehabilitation."

During the seven days, veterans will be involved in different types of activities - including karting, bubble football and axe throwing - as well as seminars on the latest technologies and treatments for the blind.

Now in its seventh year, Project Gemini recently won the International Award at the Soldiering On Awards, in recognition of outstanding achievements by those which have supported the British Armed Forces community.