A BLIND woman whose life has been turned around by her guide dog is organising an extravaganza to raise cash for a guide dog charity. Emma Keen, of Lonsdale Drive, Rainham, is arranging a disco and raffle next month to collect funds for the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

The 25-year-old, who has a three-year-old daughter, is organising the event to mark her first year with her guide dog, Elton. She said: "Before getting Elton I was housebound and only went out when accompanied by someone else. I could never take my daughter out for a walk on my own and now I can enjoy the joys of being a mother that most people take for granted such as walking, holding my little girl's hand and taking her to playschool by myself."

Emma is appealing for businesses to donate prizes to the raffle. The event will be held at the Cricket Club in Berengrave Lane, Rainham, on November 17, starting at 8pm.