A BARNSLEY man who lost his sight overnight following a life-threatening case of sepsis has raised more than £2,000 after climbing Mount Snowdon alongside his guide dog.
Lee Roberts completed the challenge with guide dog Isha, joined by friends and fellow students from Barnsley-based dance school ParkerDance.
The fundraiser - for Guide Dogs - was organised by Lee’s dance teacher, Amanda Parker, and her husband, Alan.
As part of the fundraising challenge, Lee also took on the world’s fastest zip wire the day before the climb.
Since then, he has worked to rebuild his confidence and independence, later discovering a passion for ballroom dancing after being inspired by Strictly Come Dancing.
Lee not only found a new hobby but also built close friendships and a strong support network through his classes with Amanda and Alan Parker and fellow dancers.
Lee took on a new challenge by climbing one of the UK’s highest peaks to raise funds for the charity.
He said: “Slowly but surely I found my way back to doing the things I love, and dancing became a huge part of that after being inspired by Strictly.
“Having Isha by my side has given me so much confidence and independence, and taking on Snowdon felt like another step forward for me.
“I also have to thank Alan and Amanda for encouraging me and organising the whole challenge, along with everyone else who took part and supported us.
“I wanted to give something back to Guide Dogs and help raise awareness that sight loss doesn’t have to stop you living life and trying new things.
“I want other people with sight loss to see that with the right support, anything is possible.
“You truly can find light in the darkness.”
Five years ago his life changed in an instant and what began as a dental problem - which he was unable to get treatment for during the Covid-19 lockdown - spiralled into a life-threatening fight.
While Lee survived against the odds, the illness permanently damaged his kidneys and caused him to lose his sight ‘at the flick of a switch’.
After being discharged from hospital, Lee moved in with his parents while he adapted to life without sight.
With support from the Barnsley Sensory Service, he quickly learned how to navigate independently.
From the outset, Lee knew he wanted a guide dog.
Kim Hutchings, community fundraising manager at Guide Dogs for the Yorkshire region, added: “Everyone at Guide Dogs is incredibly proud of Lee and grateful to Amanda, Alan and everyone at ParkerDance for driving this challenge.
“Not only have Lee and the group raised vital funds, but by sharing his story he’s helping raise awareness of how the right support can help people with sight loss build confidence, independence and continue doing the things they love.”
