A blind veteran from Dorset has created a special batch of scented candles to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
Tony Haskey, who is 65 year-old and from Poole, has produced five different scents of his ‘After the Darkness’ candles, with 50% of profits going to Blind Veterans UK, a charity that has supported him since he lost his sight.
Haskey, who served in the Royal Marines, decided to use his candle-making to raise money for the charity. “Making candles allows me to channel my thoughts and emotions into something beautiful,” he says.
The charity has helped him regain confidence after losing his sight due to the condition retinitis pigmentosa.
Tony first experienced sight problems while serving overseas, and by the age of 27, he was diagnosed with the condition that caused vision loss. After being referred to Blind Veterans UK, Tony attended a rehabilitation course that gave him new skills and a fresh sense of purpose.
On the 80th anniversary of VE Day, Tony reflects on the sacrifice of those who fought for liberty, saying: “We have our liberty today because of their sacrifice.” His candles are available for purchase at various locations in Poole, as well as online.
Blind Veterans UK continues to support veterans, offering rehabilitation and emotional care. For help, contact the charity at 0800 389 7979 or visit blindveterans.org.uk/gethelp.