A BLIND man who can only see one foot in front of him is set to take on his fifth London Marathon.
Charlie Parkinson, who lives in Commercial Road, Pontnewydd, lost the sight in his left eye as a result of glaucoma in 2010, before being left with only five per cent vision in the other years later.
Despite this, fitness fanatic is now preparing to take on the 26.2 mile marathon challenge once again in two weeks.
“I will be running assisted,” said the 33-year-old.
“I have taken part in lots of running events, especially marathons in the last couple of years. They are a lot of fun.
“The charity I am supporting is Blind Veterans UK. They do wonders for veterans who have lost their sight.”
He added: “I have not set a time that I hope to complete the marathon in this year. The main thing is that I complete it.”
The ex-army veteran also said he hoped news of him preparing to complete the race would encourage other blind people to do the same.
“If I want to take on a new challenge then I will,” he said.
“I do not let my blindness hold me back from doing anything. No-one should let it stop them from doing things.
“I hope me doing the marathon will encourage others to do the same.”
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