Chris’s dark days are over

Emerald's Chris Watts knows he can always rely on his pal, Zen. 67218 Emerald’s Chris Watts knows he can always rely on his pal, Zen. 67218

IT TOOK running a red light on Wellington Road more than a year ago – endangering himself and others – to make Emerald’s Chris Watts finally accept his failing eyesight.
The diabetic was rapidly losing his vision and struggled to come to grips with losing his freedom along with it.
He sold his car, handed in his licence and spiralled into a deep depression. But he praised his pal Zen for helping him see the light.
Mr Watts, now 65, said his labrador/golden retriever-cross guide dog helped ease his pain and gave him back some kind of freedom.
He is urging people to get behind the Guide Dog Victoria cause in the lead-up to Top Dog Day on 29 July.
Anyone interested in fundraising can visit www.topdogday.com.au

– Russell Bennett