Please note that as of October 2020, we now operate as Sight Scotland Veterans. Our former name, Scottish War Blinded will appear in content, such as reports, produced before that date.
A Navy veteran living with a visual impairment took to the stage in the Inverness Choral Society’s performance of The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace at the Eden Court Theatre.
Jo Long, who is supported by charity Scottish War Blinded, sang in the show on Saturday, November 17, which featured choral works by Mendelssohn, Monteverdi and Palestrina alongside the flagship Karl Jenkins piece, and also starred guest soloist Lilly Papaioannou.
On the night, Jo’s performance was attended by several other Scottish War Blinded veterans from the area, who all have sight loss and were very proud of their fellow member.
And to top off the evening, Jo presented soloist Lilly Papaioannou with a Scottish War Blinded badge.
As one of the original World War One charities, Scottish War Blinded also ran a stand at the theatre, raising awareness of the charity’s work.
Outreach Workers for The Highlands, Mick Hilton and Sheena Menzies, shared information and advice on the support they provide to veterans with sight loss in the Inverness area.
Scottish War Blinded’s Director, Rebecca Barr, also journeyed to Inverness to join members at the concert, and commented that the performance was “very moving”.
Scottish War Blinded gives free support to former servicemen and women of all ages, no matter if they lost their sight during or after service.
The charity’s outreach workers in the area run lunch groups for members, in addition to support for individuals at home, including providing tablets and smartphones with training. Call 0800 035 6409 to refer a veteran to the charity.