Carl recognised as coronavirus hero
A blind former steel worker has been shortlisted for a coronavirus hero award in recognition of his fight to provide PPE during the pandemic.
Carl Galloway, 40, from Wolverhampton, who lost his sight six years ago due to Wernicke Encephalopathy, designed and created the PPE from his own home using voice recognition software with a 3D printer.
He manufactured lightweight butterfly clips for face masks, to stop face mask straps from rubbing medical professionals’ ears and created safe, practical PPE for healthcare workers.
Carl said: “I spent 14 weeks isolated in a two-bedroom bungalow, surrounded by printers.
“If you can make others happy, that’s all that counts.”
The RNIB See Differently Awards – Coronavirus Heroes aim to shine a spotlight on the people and organisations who have stepped up to help, support and find solutions to the challenges faced by people with sight loss during the pandemic.
It also aims to recognise those blind and partially sighted people who have gone above and beyond to help others get through these uncertain times.
Lorna Forbes, RNIB head of integrated marketing, added: “Although 2020 has been an incredibly challenging year, there have been some amazing acts of kindness and support that have played a significant role in helping others though a tough time.
“Our awards recognise these amazing achievements and say thank you to these outstanding individuals and organisations. We wish all of our finalists the very best of luck.”
The awards celebrate entries across three categories – Best Community Contribution, Best Corporate Response, and Best Media Impact.
Voting for the winner of each category is now open and people can place their vote by phone or by visiting www.rnib.org.uk/vote-heroes online.
To vote for Carl by phone, text HERO 2 to 70100. All votes are free and voting closes on November 24.
