Plymouth resident with sight loss to take on London Marathon for RNIB

Jeannine Levers is preparing to don her running shoes for the Virgin Money London Marathon on 28 April in aid of the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).

Jeannine, 49, from Plymouth will run as part of Team RNIB to give something back to the charity which supported her after she was diagnosed with Stargardt’s disease.

She has been living with Stargardt’s for the past 25 years after being diagnosed in 1994. The condition is hereditary and causes a reduction in detailed central vision.

Jeannine, who works for the University of Plymouth, will be running for RNIB in support of the charity’s work breaking down the barriers facing blind and partially sighted people.

She received support from RNIB when she returned to work as an administrator. The charity conducted a workplace assessment and provided her with some new assistive technology, most of which Jeannine had never heard of before.

Jeannine, who has previously taken part in half marathons, said: “I’ve been applying for a London Marathon place in the ballot for 10 years with no success. I only found out about the possibility of getting a place by running for a charity last summer, but I immediately knew I wanted to run for RNIB after all the support they’ve given me.

“It’s going to mark a monumental year for me, as I’ll be celebrating my 50th birthday this year and it’s 25 years since I was first diagnosed with Stargardt’s.”

Lizzi Wagner, Senior Challenge Events Manager at RNIB, said: “We’re delighted that Jeannine will be taking part in the 2019 London Marathon to mark 25 years since she lost her sight. She’s a fantastic addition to Team RNIB and we can’t wait to cheer her all the way to the finish line.

“The money Jeannine raises will help us continue to smash the barriers facing people with sight loss. Please dig deep and support her fundraising efforts and help us reach our ambitious target of £230,000!”

Jeannine hopes to cross the finishing line in under five hours. She has already raised £425 and is aiming to beat her target of £2,000.

To help Jeannine reach her fundraising target and support RNIB, please donate at www.justgiving.com/jeannine-levers1