A LAMPETER woman who was left almost fully blind after a spinal cord infection 14 years ago has been shortlisted for a national award.

Louise Jenkins of Henllan is one of three finalists for the Inspirational Guide Dog Owner of the Year award.

Louise, 51, was nominated for the award by colleagues at Camfan mental health drop-in centre in Lampeter, where she is manager.

She works full time, getting to and from the centre with the help of her guide dog Trinity, a two-year-old Labrador Retriever.

Louise - mother of teenage daughters Michelle and Alison - had her world turned upside down in 2003 after a spinal cord infection permanently damaged her sight, causing blindness in one eye and tunnel vision in the other.

“Our family life completely changed,” she said. “Suddenly I couldn’t do anything on my own.”

As well as working full-time, Louise provides home care for her husband of 32 years, Adrian.

“We care for each other,” she said. “Sometimes Adrian holds the magnifying glass and directs me with the screwdriver.”

Louise also looks after her parents, who have complex health needs.

The Inspirational Guide Dog Owner of the Year will be chosen next month by viewers of ITV’s This Morning.

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