Giving In Is Not Giving Up
“2009 marked my last unsuccessful vitrectomy. “I’m sorry there’s no more we can do for you” the doctor’s voice was like a distant echo and just like that I was declared legally blind.”
In June of this year, it will be eight years since I was declared legally blind. If someone would have told me prior to my eye issues that I would survive without seeing I would have told them “no way!” I am so thankful reality is so much better than the fears I drummed up prior to my sight loss.
I can’t lie, going from darn near perfect correctable vision to no longer being able to see the eye chart was scary. So many questions like how am I going to work, how will I be able to remain independent, how can I do the things I used to do, how will I enjoy life? For many long days and nights, I was paralyzed with the fear of facing the unknown and I never felt so alone. Then something amazing happened…
I gave in. I didn’t give up. Once I faced my fear it opened the door to new and exciting opportunities. I learned how to use assistive devices to maintain my independence, keep my job, and navigate the world on my own. I got heavily involved with several blindness organizations working for justice while simultaneously breaking down stereotypes and most importantly, I now have the most amazing people in my life I would not have met if I did not experience sight loss.
Blindness is not the worse thing that can happen to a person. Never underestimate your resilience through any challenge. You are far more capable of not only continuing onward but thriving as you move forward.
Happy Friday & Have a great weekend!!