We would like to wish our Patron, Jill Allen-King OBE a very happy 80th birthday.
Jill herself has overcome adversity and has been working hard within the community for many years and we are so grateful for her ongoing support. Jill was born into poverty during the war and sadly lost her left eye after contracting measles around her first birthday. She later lost the vision in her right eye having developed acute glaucoma and found herself blind, and on her wedding day in 1965 of all days.
But this hasn’t stopped this remarkable woman from campaigning, fundraising and continuing to support and inspire local people. She has had an impact across the world by coming up with the concept of textured pavements at crossings, which are now commonplace on many pavements and help blind and partially sighted people stay safe. Her passion and motivation is extraordinary, and Jill’s humble outlook has kept her grounded despite her successes.
She recently told us “I have been given an MBE and an OBE, but my greatest honour was becoming Patron of Trust Links in 2011.”
On behalf of everyone at Trust Links, happy birthday Jill, thanks for all you have done and continue to do. You are an inspiration to all.
