Anne runs to give others independence

For many young people, the gruelling 26.2-mile course of the London Marathon is a huge challenge. Take away your eyesight and add a few years; then how many of us would even contemplate entering the great event?

For 60-year old guide dog owner Anne O’Connell, age and visual impairment aren’t reasons to shirk the challenge. Anne, who is totally blind, exchanged her guide dog, Zola, for a guide runner when she joined 35,000 other runners for the start of the marathon in 2006.

Zola has transformed her life, achieving freedom and independence only to be dreamt of previously. Anne's guide dog accompanies her almost everywhere. Anne is a magistrate and Zola sits patiently beside her in the courtroom. Anne’s busy schedule also includes studying for a degree in criminology; her guide dog always present in lectures and seminars at Birkbeck College, London University. The bond is so close that dog and owner even travel together on planes between London and Ireland when Anne goes on holiday.

Anne talks proudly about the dynamics between guide dog and owner: “When I stand up, Zola leaps up with me, watching my every move. Following me around the home she is happy to be the family pet, but as soon as the harness and lead go on, Zola is on duty-a guide dog, ready to play her role in our partnership, enhancing my independence.”

Do you have an inspiring story that you would like to share?  Please email it to events@guidedogs.org.uk.