We are so sad to share the news that CHECT member Robin Williams passed away earlier this month.
Robin was diagnosed with retinoblastoma at nine months old, losing his first eye at the age of two and a half, and his second eye aged four.
His sporting career started with swimming, in which he got to an international level, but at 15 he gave up and later tried football after England received “a complete hammering” (his words!) in the 2006 World Cup for the Blind.
His talent for the game soon shone through, and he joined the England squad in 2009 (whilst also studying for a PhD in Statistics at the University of Exeter), going on to make the World Cup squad in 2010. He would later go on to represent Great Britain at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.
During his career Robin played 106 times for England, scoring 30 goals.
Friend, teammate and fellow Paralympian Darren Harris said: “He was my team mate at London 2012, and roommate at too many tournaments to remember. We shared a love of maths, chess and many political debates. He usually won all three. But his battle with cancer was one he could not win. He was 37, and cut down in his prime. But he will forever be remembered.”
Our thoughts are with Robin’s family and close friends during this difficult time.
Please remember that CHECT support workers are here for you to talk to:
Lena: 07706 919996 / lena.copley@chect.org.uk
Sarah: 07526 594762 / sarah.turley@chect.org.uk