Simon's story

Mary, Simon's daughter, says she doesn’t remember a time without a guide dog in her family home. Her dad Simon has had guide dogs nearly all her life. Now, after nearly 30 years, she reflects on how these amazing partnerships have not only transformed her dad’s life, but also the lives of the whole family.

"Dad was registered blind in his mid-twenties. He was originally diagnosed with rod-cone dystrophy but later re-diagnosed with an extreme form of Stargardt disease. It means he now has no peripheral vision and sees only light and dark.

When I was 18 months old, Dad was partnered with his first guide dog. Although I don't remember it, I've been told that Jamie – a Labrador cross golden retriever who was also 18 months old at the time – even supported me to walk in the early days. So, I was very close to him. 

Jamie was very much part of the family and part of us, so in every family holiday photo he’s there front and centre. We’ve always loved the beach, and I remember as children we would be swimming in the sea or playing in the sand, and Jamie almost acted like a sheep dog. He would herd us all up and bring us back to Dad. And that’s a real theme of mine and my two brother’s childhood, the guide dog was always an extension of our dad, looking after and supporting us too.

And it’s been the same with Dad’s other guide dogs – Tigger, Hope and now Mayne. There’s something special about Mayne and the bond they have. I think it’s because Mayne - a Labrador cross golden retriever - has been part of some big changes in Dad’s life. 

Since being partnered with Mayne, Dad has also become a grandpa – and now has three young grandchildren with another on the way. He’s so hands on, and the children all adore him. They have so many adventures together. Dad will take the children to the park and Mayne is there watching him push them on the swings. Everything he does as a grandfather; Mayne is there supporting him."