Jake's Story

Five year old Jake has Aland Island, a very rare eye condition that means he is gradually going blind. His mother explains how Actionnaires has made a real difference to him and to his family!

"The family are determined that Jake should have a childhood that's as normal and happy as possible, but it's not always easy. Jake goes to a mainstream school but unfortunately they simply aren't able to give him the level of support he needs. For example, because he can't see very well he finds it more difficult than the other kids to change into his sports kit. Jake has started to dread sports lessons but his teacher doesn't have time to help him.

Because he can't fully take part in sports or in playground games he started to turn into a shy, timid boy who felt isolated from the other children. That's why we were overjoyed when we found out about Actionnaires. It's made such a dramatic difference to Jake. All the activities are designed with visually impaired kids in mind so there's nothing he can't do!

The Coordinator of the Actionnaires club we go to, is fantastic with the kids. The children learn more than just how to play sports. They improve their fitness, develop their social skills and learn to believe in their own abilities.

Jake's made so many friends and it's given his self esteem a huge boost to find out there are sports he can take part in and be good at. He's such a happy, confident little boy now and I'm sure this will stay with him as he grows up."