The Gibraltar Society for the Visually Impaired has received a donation of £68,679 from the late Edith Dawson. 

A statement follows below:

The Gibraltar Society for the Visually Impaired (GSVI) has received a substantial bequest of £68,679 from the late Edith Dawson. 

The bequest was presented to the Chairperson of the GSVI in September 2024 and is the largest donation the society has ever received. This gesture comes as GSVI approaches its 100th anniversary in 2030, marking nearly a century of crucial support for the visually impaired in Gibraltar.

Willa Vasquez, Chairperson of GSVI, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the donation, describing her initial reaction: “It was sheer surprise and joy. I had to read the email informing us of the donation several times for it to sink in. This is the biggest donation the society has had to date, and it couldn't have come at a better time as we prepare for our centennial celebration.”

The GSVI plays an important role in the community by providing up-to-date visual aids, as well as emotional and social support for those affected by visual impairments. The donation from Edith Dawson will enable the society to enhance its offerings even further, ensuring that members have access to the latest technology and services.

The bequest was presented by the Executors of Edith’s Will, Douglas Vickers and Charles Gomez, together with her solicitor Daniel Benyunes. 

Willa Vasquez shared a deeply personal story that inspired her involvement with GSVI. “As an artist, I’ve always appreciated the value of good eyesight. But the reality of visual impairment didn’t hit home until my own son nearly lost his vision due to a detached retina when he was 26. His eyesight started failing while he was working at his computer. Thankfully, he sought immediate medical help, and after a five-hour surgery, his sight was saved. This experience made me realize that anyone can be affected by visual impairment at any age. I’ve now been involved with GSVI for over 20 years, and this has become a personal mission for me.”

Over the years, the work of the GSVI has evolved with advances in technology. The society now focuses on providing its members with cutting-edge visual aids, which are constantly being updated. In addition to offering technical support, GSVI also organises social events to foster a sense of community among its members. "We try to accommodate the needs of our members while also ensuring that they can enjoy life and have fun, which is essential for their emotional well-being," Willa explained.

For those who wish to support the important work of the GSVI or get involved, donations and volunteer efforts are always welcome. Interested individuals can contact the society by phone at 20050111 or via email at gsvi123@gibtelecom.net. 

GSVI encourages anyone wanting to help make a difference in the lives of the visually impaired to reach out and make a real impact. 

Edith Dawson’s bequest will have a lasting impact on the GSVI, supporting its vital work and ensuring that the visually impaired community in Gibraltar continues to receive the assistance they need. Edith's generosity will not only improve the quality of life for current members but will also help shape the future of the society for generations to come.