26 August 2026
On Sunday 13 September, visually impaired runner Mathew ‘Matty’ Lamb and his guide runner Neil Ward will take on the Great North Run to raise vital funds for Vision Support Barrow and District (VSBD).
Matty’s journey is one of incredible resilience. A keen runner, he has faced significant health challenges, including having a pacemaker fitted in 2019 following an irregular heartbeat. Then, two years ago, he lost his sight due to an extremely rare mitochondrial disease.
“The reason I lost my sight is one in a million. It’s so, so rare.”
With the support of his family, guide runners and VSBD, Matty returned to running earlier this year. He is also a Peer Mentor with VSBD, using his own experience of sight loss to support and encourage others.
Taking on the 13.1-mile Great North Run is a chance for Matty to rebuild his confidence, enjoy a sport he loves and show that sight loss does not have to stop you doing the things you enjoy.
Neil, 67, is a VSBD volunteer and social runner with Glaxo Hoad Hill Harriers. When Matty’s original guide runner was injured and unable to take part, Neil was delighted to step in.
Together, Matty and Neil will run side by side to raise as much as possible for VSBD and help us continue supporting visually impaired people across South West Cumbria.
Please Support Matty and Neil
Their story is a wonderful example of what can be achieved with the right support, encouragement and determination.
Every contribution (via the below link), large or small, will make a difference.
https://www.justgiving.com/page/matty-lamb-neil-ward-1
Thank you for supporting Matty, Neil and Vision Support Barrow and District.
Tel: 01229 440556
