‘I opened my own gym shortly after being registered blind’

In 2021, Mark was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), an eye condition that caused his vision to rapidly deteriorate. In his podcast episode with Joe Wicks, he shares how being registered as blind hasn’t stopped him from achieving his goals.

“I’ve realised I’m never going to win against this,” he says, “realistically, my eyesight is only going to get worse. So It’s about trying to make the most of it every day.”

In the episode, Mark reflects on his diagnosis and why he initially found it so difficult to accept his condition and ask for help. “In the back of my mind, I was trying to act like everything was okay,” he says.

Joe and Mark also discuss how his life has changed since losing his vision, how his guide dog Mary has enhanced his life and how despite this life-altering diagnosis, Mark has managed to set up his own successful gym, The Coach House.

Listen to the full podcast episode here.

If you or someone you know is struggling with sight loss, consider getting in touch with the Guide Dogs for support.