About Graham Burrough


The man who inspired the Trust was a Dorset man who was blind for 40 years and tackled his physical and related problems with courage and style.

Graham was born in Bridport in 1931 and was diagnosed diabetic in 1933: one of the first generation to survive on insulin, with a life expectancy of 40 years.

Childhood health was a burden; he endured boarding schools at Sherborne (always hungry, often lonely). Most sports were denied him but sailing became his great love. He battled academically and achieved his final Accountancy qualifications in 1957.

With a boat in Bridport and an MG to drive, he began to enjoy life. Then his eyesight failed. By 28 he was totally blind.

Typically, he met this disaster head on, learned the skills he would need at rehab in Torquay, sold the car, bought a house and acquired a circle of willing helpers, noticeably frequently female!

A second major blow was the tragic death of his mother. Character and charisma sustained him. He became a successful Tax consultant and a prize-winning wildlife sound recordist. A national winner in 1976. He had a wide network of telephone contacts and a beautiful BBC voice. He constantly researched people, equipment, ways and means to widen both his business and personal interests; to be "normal" in a sighted world.

By his 50th birthday Graham had achieved not only an 'extra' 10 years but private and professional success, designed his own home, married and was loved and admired by supportive family and wide reaching friendships.

The toll of his illness, several physical crises, and long years of "working three times as hard just to keep up" (his words), so long kept at bay by a doughty and determined will (and how!) began to distress him mentally.

After several very difficult years, in and out of hospital and with little consistent support, he and his equally exhausted wife found refuge and loving care for him at The Retreat in York. A long way from home, but offering the asylum and total care that he needed and deserved, and the right of every hurt body and mind.

Graham fought on for another 10 years with courage and unforgettable style. He died in York Hospital in October 1997. He was 66 and had truly beaten the odds.

Please remember him with gratitude.