OXSIGHT Prism Glasses help Scottish war veteran to gain visual independence again after 10 years

Low vision glasses specialist OXSIGHT has enabled Scottish war veteran to gain his independence again after losing his vision.

John Hutchinson, 90, started to go blind 10 years ago and came to rely on his guide dog Bracken.

In 2008 whilst travelling home from Africa, John noticed something wrong with his vision. On his return he visited an Optician. However, by this time, it was too late to rectify. He was suffering with retinal thrombosis. His diagnosis is a direct result of parasites infesting his bloodstream whilst serving with the United Nations.

OXSIGHT Prism glasses are designed to allow people with peripheral vision loss (caused by conditions such as Glaucoma, Diabetes, Retinitis Pigmentosa and other degenerative eye diseases) and other low vision conditions to get the most out of their remaining vision; and to feel confident making sense of their surroundings. Using intelligent image interpretation algorithms plus micro-OLED displays to bring images into the field-of-view for the user, the glasses are designed for comfortable wear. Users can see faces of family and friends when socialising, recognise objects, hazards, read signs, manage money, see colour and enjoy hobbies.

John’s involvement with the Royal British Legion Scotland led his funding to begin, after he mentioned he would ‘‘sell his medals to fund the glasses’’. The astonished Largs branch members proposed that they would donate money; and the rest was crowdfunded.

Chairman at the time Stuart Rumble, ensured that the crowdfunding was given plenty of exposure.

John’s story touched the hearts of the locals in his area and donations started to flood in. They had a huge help from the Largs Thistle football club, who held a charity football match of older fans and former players.

Ruth Gregory from the Royal British Legion Scotland, mentioned they were ‘‘overwhelmed and delighted’’ that their initial target had been exceeded; allowing John the full funding to purchase the OXSIGHT Prism glasses.

Here’s the moment he saw his friends for the first time in years.