My dad and mum were both blind. I had a beautiful childhood, up until the age of eight when dad died suddenly. Our family life was not that different to that of our school friends. Mum reading us braille bed-time stories, her playing the piano or working in her compact kitchen. Dad, when not working as a telephonist in Chelmsford, was either playing his accordion, playing classical music, gardening or hit or miss woodwork. We had trips to the seaside as well as visits to paternal grandmother and two sisters who lived in Coventry. I’m still living here in Finedon, where we moved, soon after dad had died. I’ve recently retired from helping people to maximise their Welfare Benefits. I was also a volunteer for Wellingborough Welfare Rights for many years. I’m now looking forward to my other interests which include walking in our beautiful countryside, visiting our caravan in Norfolk, spending time with our three adult children and grandaughter or visiting Burton Latimer Library Plus.