An 86-year-old man named Alan Hannay has described learning to read as a life-changing experience, enabling him to engage more fully with his family and the world around him.
Hannay, who lives in Southampton, England, learned to read through the charity Read Easy, an organization dedicated to helping adults improve their literacy skills. He told BBC Radio Solent that the ability to read has significantly boosted his confidence and positively impacted his family life. "It's one of the best experiences I've ever had in my life," Hannay stated.
He now dedicates about an hour and a half each morning to reading and attends classes twice a week. "I enjoy it so much now," he said. The charity has lauded Hannay as an "inspiring example of determination and courage."
Hannay's journey to literacy began when he inquired about learning to read at his local library in Hythe, Southampton. This led him to Read Easy and his reading coach, Angie. During his career as a professional chauffeur, Hannay relied heavily on his memory to navigate and transport clients. He had previously attempted to improve his reading skills at the age of 70 by attending evening classes, but found the group setting challenging.
Learning to read has allowed Hannay to read anniversary cards for himself and his wife for the first time in 65 years.