Touching The World: A Blind Woman Two Wheels 25,000 Miles. This item is unavailable.Touching The World: A Blind Woman Two Wheels 25,000 Miles

Cathy Birchall is the first blind person ever to circumnavigate the globe on a motorcycle, covering 26,385 miles, 31 countries and 5 continents with her companion Bernard on an 18 year old motorcycle. Adventure and courage all the way - From feeling the traffic passing so close it touches you as you ride through Indian cities, to mounting an elephant from the front (yes really!) and climbing Macchu Picchu, this wonderful book is just full of surprises. You feel you are almost there with Cathy and Bernard, as they experience so much and see so many different cultures. This is a travel book of extraordinary beauty and interest - and unique in the perspective it takes. Cathy's story is inspirational and uplifting. Touching the World is written from Cathy's point of view, that of a blind woman. It is not only an amazing travel story but challenges all our perceptions of our own boundaries as well as those of others. On their travels Bernard and Cathy almost become a single person as they overcome every obstacle with strength and courage - helped in generous measure by the unwavering kindness of strangers around the world. In doing so Cathy achieved not just her dream but something of a landmark for us all! What is it like to be blind? Touching The World gives you a real insight into the nature of blindness and the ability of the human spirit to transcend almost any difficulty. If this question can be answered then Cathy Birchall's story comes as close as is possible! "Cathy's courage has been truly inspirational for many blind and partially sighted people across the world" Stephen Remington, Action for Blind People "An incredible and inspirational story. Ride, Cathy, ride!" Ted Simon author of Jupiter's Travels.

Cathy Birchall has been blind since she was in her mid 20s. Following the death of her husband of 19 years and finding herself blind and alone she put herself through college and became a Further Education Lecturer. Within this role she met Bernard Smith, and then took a year off from her job with Action for Blind People to go on this journey. Bernard, a motorcyclist for over 30 years, and a former teacher then working for the RNIB, had an ambition to circle the world. On their return from their trip Cathy went through treatment for cancer from which she is recovering. Bernard is now retired, but does a little consultancy.