A blind Letchworth woman is set to take part in a sponsored trek across Iceland next month to raise money to help others affected by sight loss.

The Comet: Fazilet Hadi back home in Letchworth.Fazilet Hadi back home in Letchworth. (Image: Archant)

Fazilet Hadi, of South View, told the Comet that the Royal National Institute of Blind People had done a huge amount to help her in her life, as well as countless others – and that completing the challenge would be a way for her to give something back to the charity.

The trip, from October 6 to 10, will include three days of hiking across the south-west of Iceland’s volcanic landscape, where 13 volcanoes have erupted since 1918.

“Being blind or partially sighted can be really tough,” said Fazilet, who will celebrate her 59th birthday in a hut during the trek.

“Getting the right support from RNIB can make our lives so much better.

“I’m a little anxious as I don’t know how difficult I will find the terrain or how hostile the weather conditions will be, but now I’ve just got to get on with it.”

Fazilet started to lose her sight as a child, and experienced further deterioration through her teenage years. By the time she was at university she couldn’t see well enough to read, and had trouble getting around.

She now works for RNIB as its group director for engagement.

“RNIB fights for the rights of blind and partially sighted people and has some fantastic services,” she said.

“It campaigns to make the world fairer for visually impaired people.

“It enables people with sight loss to connect with each other, gives emotional and practical support to people losing their sight, and provides advice, services and products to support independence.

“It also produces books of all kinds in audio, large print and braille.

“There are so many things I have to thank RNIB for, including the fabulous Talking Book Service, which gives me access to the joy of reading, and products which support my independence inside and outside the home.

“I am just one of the many people who have benefitted hugely from RNIB’s championing of the rights of blind and partially sighted people.”

To sponsor Fazilet’s fundraising, see justgiving.com/fazilethadi.