Dad goes marathon running to help children with vision impairments

By Mary Dennehy

A Tallaght dad took on the Dublin City Marathon last Sunday to fundraise for a sports and recreation camp for children with vision impairments – which has given his son the confidence to follow his dreams.

Living in Jobstown, Robbie Darcy’s 11-year-old son Aaron, who is a student of Scoil Cnoc Mhuire, has albinism and is legally blind.

Two years ago, Aaron attended Camp Abilities Ireland, a CARA-adapted physical activity centre that empowers children with vision impairments to be physically active while increasing their independence.

CARA is a national organisation that enhances sport and physical activity opportunities for people with disabilities, ensuring that those with disabilities have the same awareness of and access to opportunities to be active.

Speaking with The Echo, Robbie said: “Camp Abilities is amazing, it shows children with vision impairment that they can do what everybody else can do and that there’s nothing stopping them.

“It gives children the confidence to join local clubs and teaches them that their eyesight does not restrict what they can do in their communities.”

He added: “We were a bit nervous when Aaron went to the camp two years ago – it was his first time away from home.

“However, he came home like a different child. He had come out of his shell, was more outgoing, independent and confident.

“He also learned new life skills that will benefit him throughout his whole life.”

Aaron has been to the camp for two years running now and has since joined Jobstown Celtic’s under-11s team.

“I couldn’t believe it when Aaron asked me if he could join a local soccer club,” Robbie told The Echo.