Mr Robin Giles and his wife, Felicity, visited St Gregory Primary School on November 9. They were accompanied by Mr Giles’ guide dog, Nixon. Mr Giles spoke to the learners on behalf of the Guide Dogs Association of South Africa.

Mr Giles talked to the learners about the full life he leads with the help of Nixon and modern technology, despite being blind. The learners were captivated by his stories about walks around Pietermaritzburg and their visits to different stores to do shopping. Mr Giles demonstrated the different hand signals and commands he uses to direct Nixon to where he wants to go. This included walking straight into the front row to show how Nixon would stop him if necessary.

Mr Giles also informed the learners about the training guide dogs need to undergo and the cost involved. Mr Giles also enjoys “reading” by means of audiobooks, played on a special device.

The technological tool that truly fascinated the learners was a gadget to enable a blind person to pour him/herself a drink without spilling. Sensors notify the user when the mug or glass is nearly full. The session ended with an opportunity for the learners to ask questions and then some of them could come to the front to give Nixon a yummy treat.

St Gregory Primary School would like to thank Mr Giles for a thoroughly eye-opening experience!