HAVE you ever considered eating a meal blindfolded or wondered what it would be like to be blind or vision-impaired?
If so, you will soon have an opportunity to experience a delicious 'Dinner in the Dark' event.
Martie Kuhn has joined forces with Brendon Lynch, from Oasis on the River, to hold a special fundraising dinner on Thursday May 19.
"The dinner is a fundraiser for my niece Tanya's seven-year-old daughter Mackenzie, who was born blind and receives support from Vision Australia," Martie said.
"Tanya and Mackenzie are heading off on a six month road trip around Australia to raise awareness about Vision Australia and to raise funds for their children's services, which give children who are blind or have low vision more options about the way they live."
The pair kicked off their fundraising campaign with a very successful 'Dinner in the Dark' event in Sydney.
Video footage of that event on Tanya's 'The Road Unseen' blog illustrates what can happen when eating blindfolded, and how difficult it can be to tackle the simplest of tasks.
"My heart just melts every time I see that footage, particularly the part where Mackenzie sings," Martie said.
"She's such a beautiful girl and really deserves all the support we can possible provide."
Brendon Lynch did not hesitate to become involved and throw his support behind the event.
"As a dad I know you just have to do everything in your power to help your kids," Brendon said.
"I'm excited to be involved; it's a real privilege."
Martie and Brendon are planning some fun, braille-inspired games and challenges for the night and musical entertainment will be provided by Samantha Broadbent.
Diners will also be taught some essential skills for eating when vision-impaired.
"The video on the blog shows how tapping your plate can make it easier," Martie said.
"Just one meal gives people a taste of what it's like to live with impaired vision."
"There were a lot of laughs, and judging from that footage, people coming to the dinner may want to bring a bib," she added with a grin.
Tanya and Mackenzie will be at the Dinner in the Dark to talk about their journey and the support they receive from Vision Australia.
"Tanya is an amazing mum, and is doing an incredible job helping to give Mackenzie a great life and every opportunity she possibly can."
Dinner guests may also hear from young Mackenzie herself, if she can be convinced to step up to the microphone.
Dinner in the Dark will be held at Oasis By The River at North Haven from 6.30pm on Thursday May 19, 2016.
Ticket-holders will enjoy an unforgettable dining experience, canapes on arrival, a two course meal, and a bottle of wine per couple.
Tickets cost $95 and are available from Oasis By the River; phone 6559 6918 to book or call in at 613 Ocean Drive, North Haven.
OPSM Laurieton has kicked off local business support for the event with a generous prize donation. To make a donation or find out how you can support the Dinner in the Dark phone Martie Kuhn on 0413 596 903 or send an email to martie26@bigpond.com.
To find out more about Tanya and Mackenzie Savva and to view some fabulous footage from a similar event in Sydney go to their The Road Unseen blog - www.theroadunseen.com.
