Allan Golabek lost his sight at the age of 24 as the result of a motorcycle accident.  Immediately after the crash, his doctors gave him a less than 2% chance of survival.

Against the odds, Allan began to steadily recover.  At the time, he assumed he would have to give up the outdoor activities and sports that were such an important part of his life.

With the support and love of friends and family, Allan worked hard to regain his confidence and resume his life.  A pivotal moment occurred in 1994 when he came to Guiding Eyes for his first guide dog – black Labrador Kessler.  The transformation from a cane to a guide dog was life-changing; Alan could now walk faster and with improved posture.  Most importantly, he felt safe.

Allan went back to school and received his license as a massage therapist.  He began water ski jumping and found a new passion; he even set a world record!    Allan has travelled extensively for both massage clinics and water ski competitions – all with Guiding Eyes Kessler by his side.

This April, Allan returned to Guiding Eyes for his new guide and companion – Rocky, a yellow Labrador.  He knows Rocky will help him to resume the level of independence he once shared with Kessler.

At home in Connecticut, Allan has become an advocate for blindness related issues, speaking to children in local schools to educate them on how to interact with blind and visually impaired people.  When discussing his own blindness, Allan shares that his life slowed down in a beautiful way after losing his sight.  He is able to wholeheartedly enjoy each day, and believes that his accident may have been a blessing in disguise.