Peer Support for Vision Loss
Tracy Simon from Eye2Eye peer support program shares her story of vision loss, how her program works, and the benefits of connecting with and supporting each other.
Hadley Presents
Peer Support for Vision Loss
Presented by Ricky Enger
Ricky Enger: Welcome to Hadley Presents. I'm your host, Ricky Enger, inviting you to sit back, relax, and enjoy a conversation with the experts. In this episode, we discuss the importance of peer support for those with blindness or low vision. And joining us are guests Tracy Simon, peer-to-peer support partner for the Eye2Eye Program, interviewed by Hadley’s Director of Community, Marc Arneson. Welcome to the show, both of you.
Tracy Simon: Thank you. Thank you.
Marc Arneson: Thanks, Ricky.
Ricky Enger: Marc, it's great to have you back on the show. And Tracy, good to have you as a first-time guest. And I always like to, just before we jump into the day's topic, get people to tell us a little about who they are and what they do. So we'll start with you, Marc.
Marc Arneson: My name is Marc and I am the Director of Community at Hadley.. What I've been doing here at Hadley is just getting to know as many people as possible and really listening as much as possible and understanding what are some of the challenges out there with those who have a visual impairment and what are ways that Hadley can help? And then bring it back to Hadley, see what we can do and then bring it back and see how we did. And then once we have something that we think is helpful, just go tell as many people as possible about it.
Ricky Enger: Awesome. And such an important job that is. And Tracy, how about a little about you?
Tracy Simon: My name is Tracy and I actually am a peer support partner for the Eye2Eye program, which is based out of New Jersey. We are a peer-support program which is phone-based and we speak with individuals that are blind and vision impaired and we just help them to get to a mental wellness and help them with coping with everyday issues that they have in life and build a relationship with them so that they can become independent and confident in their lives and dealing with their issues.
Ricky Enger: And that's such an important thing, right? Part of being blind or low vision is doing the practical things, but that's only a part of it. You know, a bigger part is being able to go through what it is that you're going through and feel a sense of confidence on the other side, and be able to face some challenges that maybe you weren't expecting and just to get some help, whether it's in how you feel about what's happening to you, and even some of that practical help as well. So I think peer support is such an important thing. And we're going to talk about that today. With that, I want to turn this over to Marc. I know you've got some great questions. And let's just kick this off and talk about the importance of peer support and kind of how it works.
Marc Arneson: Tracy, thank you so much, again, for joining us today. You had mentioned that you have a visual impairment yourself. Can you share with me a little bit about your eye condition?
Tracy Simon: I have Stargardt's disease. And for those of you that aren't aware, Stargardt's is a disease that you usually get when you're a child and it impacts your vision in a multitude of ways. For me, I actually did not get Stargardt's when I was a child. I actually got it maybe eight years ago as an adult. And for me, the vision loss, it was gradual. It started off with loss of pigment colorization, floaters, blurriness, dark patches behind the retina, so that I would not be able to see items in front of me, a lack of light in my environment. And to this day now, it has progressed to the point where my central vision is extremely poor, and my peripheral vision gets me around just enough so that I don't need to use a cane every day. So for my vision now, I'm not able to read my mail or letters without ultra-magnification devices. And I don't recognize faces unless you are in front of me and I know you.
Marc Arneson: Tracy, can you share with me, do you have children? Are you married?
Tracy Simon: I am divorced and I have three adult children.
Marc Arneson: So how did that ... Did it have any impact on your relationship with your children and your family life?
Tracy Simon: You know what, Marc? It certainly did. And for me, I actually lost my vision and my marriage at the same time, the same year. And so that was a pretty hard hit for me. It was a struggle because I was scared. I was alone. I had to start life pretty much anew in all different dimensions, as far as being a single mom now, having to raise kids. My children at that time were middle school age, I guess, and high school age. And then I had to become the head of the household and then learn how to navigate and get around life with this vision loss. I eventually ended up having to give my license, my driving license, away because I could not drive anymore because I couldn't even see the traffic light to drive. It was not safe for me to drive around the car with myself or kids, or even for pedestrians and other drivers. So I had to give that independence up. So it was a really challenging time for me. I felt that I needed to be strong for my kids. I felt that I needed to set the example and the bar for them. You know, when life gets tough, then you get tougher. You learn to keep going and that was a heavy weight for me.
And I carried that weight for several years. I tell you now, eight years later, I've learned to put the bar down just a little bit lower, because it kind of boomerangs on me because my kids just thought that there was not really a lot different about me until it was time to go to the supermarket and I'm asking them, what's this and what does it say? And how much does it cost? Because I truly couldn't see and they didn't understand. It's like, well, you can do everything else, how come you can't see that? But my kids have been supportive. We're managing this vision loss very well now.
Ricky Enger: It's interesting that you bring up kind of how your kids responded to this, where it's a little bit confusing because you're obviously the same mom that they've had forever and yet suddenly things have changed. And especially when there isn't a complete immediate change, so you've gone from seeing everything to suddenly seeing nothing, that's a little easier to explain and understand than something that's happening gradually and possibly even something that you could do six months before is a struggle for you now. So it's interesting how that impacts family dynamics.
Tracy Simon: And like you said, it was really very true, Ricky, is that your kids see you as mom. They don't see you as this person that walks around with a cane or needs to have so many lights on in one room to be able to stay and still use the magnifier sitting at the kitchen table with the CCTV to read the mail. And my kids were pretty compassionate, I would say, about it. I'm sure they had questions about it, but they didn't really ask too much unless I asked them. And it's really important that you have that conversation with your family because they don't understand, because they have vision. They don't understand when you have partial vision and the magnitude of what that vision can be different. And it varies from day to day.
It was important for me and it helped my anxiety levels so that I would express to them, "I know that it looks like there's nothing wrong with me, but what I need for you to understand is that I need your help in certain areas." I'm a pretty independent person. And I like things done a certain way. So my kids just take the safe way and they just stay out of my way. You know, they're just like, "You know what? I'll be there if she needs me." And that was the way we functioned and operated, but I wouldn't advise it everyone do it the way I do it. You have to find what works for your family. But as long as you're communicating to them what your specific needs are and where you need the help, is a conversation that needs to be had.
Marc Arneson: So I'm curious. Can you tell me about maybe some of the relationships that you have with others who have a visual impairment?
Tracy Simon: I absolutely love my new community. They are the most optimistic and resilient people that I have ever met. I have two actually of my coworkers in the program that are amazing. One is Aretha and she has RP. She is so strong and I look up to her because she's withstood her vision impairments since she was a teenager. And so she's had to jump through a whole bunch of hurdles and she's gone to college and she's a licensed counselor. So she has gone to school and she's gone through all that studying. And for me, I'm just like, "Oh my gosh, I can barely read my mail." You know? So she's been a really role model for me.
Then we have another one, his name is James, and he is totally blind, and he lost his vision through a car accident and he had to raise his children being blind. And I admire him because he again is strong and has raised his kids and has done dynamic things within the blind community and for his own community as well. So I really look up to those two major people in my life because they helped me to grow up. Because I'm the baby of the group. I've only been in this for eight years. So I'm still learning.
Ricky Enger: And it is helpful, right? To see people who are in a place that you want to be, or they've done things that you admire and maybe you aspire to. It fills a need in us just to look up to somebody and have something to strive for. It isn't one-sided, I think. I think that you have probably talked with people and you've been the person that they look up to. You're on the other side of some things and perhaps they're just starting out. Can you talk about that if that's happened? Like how does it feel when you're giving someone some insight that they may not have had before, just based on your own experiences?
Tracy Simon: I absolutely am so humbled to have this experience to use my own life as a help for others. I have people that I speak with that have just become blind or vision impaired, and they have no idea what to do, where to turn to. They feel like life is over. There's no meaning and purpose. And just to have those conversations with them, to let them know, "I know exactly how you feel. I've been there. And if I could just share with you that there is a way out of it. It's not always going to be easy, but together we can get through it." And I've been able to speak to so many people that they absolutely admire me and the work that I've done for them.
And I say this so humbly, so appreciatively. Because I'm just having a conversation with them and sharing with them my experiences and what has worked for me. In my listening to them and what they're going through, I can only offer suggestions through what they're saying to me. But the most gratifying experience that I have, Ricky, is when they call me back and say, "Tracy, guess what? I did what you said, and oh my gosh, I can't believe I did that. It was wonderful." Like I have one friend, she was very scared to walk by herself and I encouraged her and gave him some tips. And one day she went out and it made her feel so good. She went shopping by herself. And that's something that we take for granted when we have vision that you can just jump in the car and go shopping. But she did this one little test by herself and it's just brightened her world. And those are the stories that really warm my heart and let me know that I'm doing a good thing.
Marc Arneson: Over and over again, I do hear the importance of connecting with others who just understand what you're going through and how important that is, that relatability. And I love that you want to use your life to help others. And it sounds like what you're doing with this program, Eye2Eye. Do you mind sharing a little bit about the program that you're working at?
Tracy Simon: Eye2Eye is a phone-based program and what we do is we offer peer support for people that are vision impaired and blind. And we too, as peer partners, are also vision impaired and blind. We're a small team at this time. However, we do plan to grow. But what we do at the Eye2Eye program is we offer support to people to help them to be able to function in everyday life with their vision impairment. And so we may also offer support in ways of resources, if we're giving suggestions for home care or even self-care, mental wellness, physical, emotional, spiritual, financial, environmental. Because it all counts. Because everything works together. Because if you don't feel good, then you're probably not going to really want to have the enthusiasm to do other things.
So what we do at the Eye2Eye program is we help people get to a place where we can cope with our situations by using the resources for people and social environments or helping with the family so that the family can be a part of our journey, and devices in regards to technology that we can use to help us to be able to function and to be independent, because that is one of the goals that we want our callers to become, to have a sense of good self so that ... And that's really important. While help is really important, and sometimes it's difficult asking for help, and I would encourage people to ask for help. And that's what we do at the peer program is we teach you ways to communicate so that you can get help and also give help.
Ricky Enger: How do people connect with you? So is it like internet-based or phone-based? Or how does all that work?
Tracy Simon: Yes, we are a phone-based program, so people will call into us and we communicate in that way. And then also we call out as well. So it's not just we're sitting, waiting for the phone to ring. The people that we are connected with, we'll call on them and we check on them. And what we do is we call at least maybe once a week. Depending on whatever the schedule of the individual is, we call them, and we set small goals. We offer advice. So sometimes we just sit, and we listen because sometimes that's all you really need. You just need someone to sit and listen to what you're going through because when you're in a family of all sighted people, and you're the only one with no vision or little vision, you sometimes feel like you're left out.
Eye2Eye is just a call away, you know? And I cannot tell you how many times I call my individuals, my clients. And every time I speak to them, they're like, "Oh my gosh, hi, I'm so glad you called." Oh my gosh, what an awesome feeling that is for me. And that just motivates me to just give them all that I have. They've got my attention. "Hey, I understand what going through, because that's where I am." And we share our stories, in the beginning you cry about, but then together we laugh about certain situations about, like, who moved my scissors, you know? And it's so important, who put the spatula in the pots and pan drawer? Or it's like, where is ... And it drives you crazy because at that moment you're anxious. But when you talk to someone that has had that same experience.
Ricky Enger: Oh, absolutely. Yes. Especially the scissors thing, because my family steals kitchen scissors all the time and I have one set for upstairs and one set for downstairs and somehow they still disappear.
Tracy Simon: Yeah. So that's what we do. You know, we offer support across the board.
Ricky Enger: We will, of course, have the number for the Eye2Eye support group in our show notes so that you can pick up the phone and call wherever you happen to be, and call for support, or even perhaps to get an idea of how you might do something similar in your own area, because peer support is so important. I'm wondering if each of you have just some final thoughts to leave our listeners with as we wrap up the program. Marc, let's start with you.
Marc Arneson: Oh, Tracy. I just want to thank you for joining us today and just being open with your life and sharing with us the last eight years and what you've kind of experienced. And it's inspiring to me that you're using those experiences to really help others who are going through some difficult times right now, perhaps, or dealing with something new in their lives. I think this Eye2Eye program that you are a part of is such a needed program today. Connection is such an important piece for people. You guys are providing that for those who desperately need it in a time where it's hard to do right now. So thank you for joining us. I really appreciate it.
Ricky Enger: Absolutely. And Tracy, any final thoughts from you?
Tracy Simon: First, I just want to thank you, Ricky, thank you, Marc, for having me on. I would like to speak to our listeners. Guys, listen. I know that it's tough, but don't give up. Never give up. Because the moment that you give up is the moment that it stops, and we just can't stop because someone needs you. We are all important. We all play a role in life. And whether big or small, it's still a role. So if you need help, get the help. And don't be ashamed because guess what? You're not alone. And here at Eye2Eye, we're here to help. We're here to help you and to let you know that you matter.
Ricky Enger: Thank you so much for that. Marc and Tracy, I appreciate your joining us for such an important and such an inspiring discussion today. And thank you all for listening. Got something to say? Share your thoughts about this episode of Hadley Presents or make suggestions for future episodes. We'd love to hear from you. Send us an email at podcast@hadley.edu. That's podcast@hadley.edu. Or leave us a message at (847) 784-2870. Thanks for listening.
-
Websites
Phone: (833) 932-3931
All Episodes
-
Episode 106
Sometimes, navigating life with vision loss goes a bit sideways. Things don't always turn out exactly as we've planned, and it can help to just laugh at these strange situations.
We've shared several episodes of listeners' stories, what we're calling vision loss bloopers. Today, Ricky Enger and Doug Walker share some more of these bloopers along with a few of their own.
-
Episode 105
Prevent Blindness' patient advocacy program empowers people facing vision impairment. Patients learn how to promote change with their physicians, their families, drug companies, and even policy makers.
-
Episode 104
Ever thought about getting a guide dog? Listen in as we chat with members Jeff Flodin and Ed McDaniel about their experiences with guide dogs and some common misperceptions.
-
Episode 103
The National Library Service has a free talking book program for anyone in the US with vision loss. Tonia Bickford, an advisor from Michigan's talking books program, joins us to discuss how to get the most out of this free service.
-
Episode 102
This week we learn more about visual hallucinations that sometimes accompany vision loss, a condition called Charles Bonnet syndrome.
-
Episode 101
Sometimes vision loss can make us feel less secure. This week we talk about personal safety with Hadley's Chief Program Officer, Ed Haines.
-
Episode 100
For many living with vision loss, watching TV is less enjoyable as they can't see what's happening on the screen very well anymore.
Audio description fills the void by narrating key visual elements. Listen in as Ricky chats with Hadley member and avid audio description user, Judy Davis. -
Episode 99
Listen in to our conversation with Dr. Mondal, a low vision optometrist and professor at the University of Wisconsin. We chat about what to expect from a visit to a low vision specialist and the kind of help they can offer.
-
Episode 98
Have you listened to Hadley's community-generated audio podcast yet? In this episode, Ricky and Marc Arneson, Hadley's Director of Community, share a few stories from Insights & Sound Bites and discuss how to contribute your own story. Insights & Sound Bites | Hadley
-
Episode 97
Listen in as artist Chloe Duplessis explains how a degenerative eye disease changed, and didn't change, her life and love of art. "I thought art required sight. I was wrong."
-
Episode 96
Dr. Judy Box, a Hadley member living with macular degeneration, shares her tips for managing those important conversations with your eye doctor.
-
Episode 95
In this episode, the Hadley team talks all things gifts. Giving them, getting them, what's on their wish lists, and how vision loss may, or may not, impact these activities.
-
Episode 94
Friendships often change when one has vision loss. Whether it's adaptations to the activities you enjoy together, asking for help, or turning that help down … there are conversations to be had. Let's tune in as two Hadley members, Eugenia DeReu and Tara Perry, share their experiences with what's changed for them — and what's stayed the same.
-
Episode 93
Losing some vision can make for shopping challenges. Here are a few mishaps that Hadley members have run into. Have your own to share? Email us at podcast@HadleyHelps.org
-
Episode 92
This week we chat with the chief technology officer from Envision as he shares how their free mobile app or camera-enabled glasses can help those with vision loss. It speaks aloud written information, describes surroundings and objects, and even tells you who's nearby.
-
Episode 91
Lots of questions, concerns, and stereotypes connected to use of the white cane. In this episode, we address several of them from past discussions on the topic.
-
Episode 90
Listen in as Hadley's Director of Community, Marc Arneson, chats with Hadley members Bill Massey and Gregory Peterson about their participation in Hadley's new Peer-to-Peer program.
To learn if getting a peer connection is for you, call us at 1-800-323-4238. -
Episode 89
Listen in as we chat with Ed Haines about getting the most out of our magnifiers.
-
Episode 88
Listen in as we chat with animal lovers Debbie Worman and Sheri Robinson about the joys and challenges of caring for a pet when you have vision loss.
-
Episode 87
Listen in as Hadley member, Wendy Spencer Davis, shares why she decided to learn some braille and how it's helping her in everyday life.
-
Episode 86
Ed McDaniel, a psychologist with low vision, joins us to talk about common emotional triggers people with vision loss face and how to recognize and manage them.
-
Episode 85
Jessica Grogan from the American Diabetes Association joins us to talk about managing your blood sugar with vision loss.
-
Episode 84
Tune into our chat with Sarah Clark, a visually impaired marriage and family therapist, as she offers her unique insight into some common family dynamics that often make adjustment more challenging and how to navigate through them successfully.
-
Episode 83
Join us as we chat with Hadley member, Kris, about her experience living with vision loss in a senior community.
-
Episode 82
Listen in as Hadley staff share their real-life bloopers—times when things didn’t quite go as planned.
-
Episode 81
Join us as we take a dive into the features of the BlindShell cell phone.
-
Episode 80
Listen in as Pastor Scott Himel shares his advice for participating in religious services no matter your level of vision.
-
Episode 79
Join us to learn about how ScripTalk technology translates medication labels into speech and where you can find a participating pharmacy.
-
Episode 78
Join occupational therapist from Duke Eye Center, Fay Tripp, in a conversation about bioptic glasses—what they are and who can benefit from them.
-
Episode 77
Listen in as we chat with birding expert Freya McGregor who shares her tips on how you can enjoy this hobby, no matter your level of vision.
-
Episode 76
Listen in as Hadley's Doug Walker and Ricky Enger chat about how they use GPS in their daily lives. From walking directions to finding items or assisting a driver by navigating a trip, GPS can be a very handy tool.
-
Episode 75
Listen in as we chat with Dave Steele about his life, poetry, and vision loss.
-
Episode 74
Listen in as we discuss some common situations that can make us feel unsafe and share ideas on how to address them. We're joined today by Christy Ray and Ricky Jones of STRIVE4You.Org
-
Episode 73
Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for feelings of shame to creep in when we've lost some vision. Join social worker Jeff Flodin and psychologist Ed McDaniel, both visually impaired themselves, as they explore where these feelings come from and how they have worked through these emotions in their own lives.
-
Episode 72
Listen in as Dorrie Rush of OE Magazine shares how she resisted using a white cane for years, the stigma she feared, and the confidence and security she found once it was in her hand.
-
Episode 71
Learn how CVS pharmacy customers throughout the US can access a free service that reads aloud prescription medication information.
-
Episode 70
Join us as we chat with author Hannah Fairbairn about the tips and tricks she has learned to take some of the stress out of holiday get-togethers, no matter your vision.
-
Episode 69
We're joined by the creator of The Blind Life YouTube channel, Sam Seavey. Sam shares his personal journey with vision loss and advice he has for people who are newer to vision loss.
-
Episode 68
Whether you like to read for enjoyment or need to check your mail, reading is an essential part of your day. We're sharing tips and tricks for how to continue reading, the best low-tech and high-tech gadgets, and the benefits of learning braille.
-
Episode 67
Chief Innovation Officer Doug Walker chats with us about the launch of Hadley's newest podcast, Insights & Sound Bites. This new podcast will offer short stories shared by listeners. By tapping into the power of our community, we hope to share ideas, discoveries, and moments of inspiration along the journey through vision loss.
-
Episode 66
Jim Hoxie and Joanna Jones join us to discuss their children’s book, "Grandpa's White Cane." Jim shares how vision loss shaped his life and how he and Joanna, a retired teacher, began instructing children about the importance of white cane awareness and the do's and don'ts for helping people with visual impairment.
-
Episode 65
Blogger and social worker Jeff Flodin talks about his personal journey with vision loss and how his passion for helping people led him to blog about his experiences.
-
Episode 64
Hadley has partnered with the National Eye Institute (NEI) to offer a Spanish-language version of our popular cooking workshop series. Devina Fan, director of the National Eye Health Education Program at NEI, joins the podcast to talk more about this new initiative, NEI’s expanding Spanish content, and the importance of connecting Hispanic and Latino communities to important vision resources.
-
Episode 63
A change in your vision may make some parts of your job more challenging. But with a bit of help and some new skills, you may be able to stay in your job. Hadley Chief Program Officer Ed Haines and Learning Expert Steve Kelley join the podcast to talk about our new Working with Vision Loss workshops and to share tips for where to find support and how to ask for what you need.
-
Episode 62
Certified accessible travel advocate Melvin Reynolds joins the podcast to share tips for getting the most out of traveling, no matter your level of vision. Melvin gives advice on what to research ahead of a trip, considerations for traveling with a guide dog, and how a certified accessible travel advocate can help.
-
Episode 61
Karen and Dan Leonetti share how vision loss has changed their relationship and the advice they have for other couples.
-
Episode 60
Rabbi Lenny Sarko joins us to talk about how his vision loss journey led him to create a first-of-its-kind braille Sefer Torah that people around the country can access.
-
Episode 59
Actor and artist Bruce Horak talks about his personal journey with vision loss, how he got interested in painting, and his role in the new television series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.
-
Episode 58
CEO of Eschenbach Optik of America Ken Bradley joins the podcast to discuss how Eschenbach has adapted through the pandemic to help people with visual impairment access low vision devices remotely. Through their "Telelowvision" program, you can try out magnification devices from the comfort of your home to find what works best for you before you buy.
-
Episode 57
Scottish radio broadcaster and podcaster Steven Scott loves finding and talking about tech stuff. He's especially fond of apps and gadgets that make life easier for him and others with vision loss.
-
Episode 56
NYT Columnist Frank Bruni returns to the podcast to talk about his new book. Frank describes his personal experiences with vision loss and how, with time, his perspective has grown.
-
Episode 55
IT professional and stand-up comedian Todd Blenkhorn talks about his personal journey with vision loss and how his passion for stand-up helped him find and share the humor in daily interactions.
-
Episode 54
In this episode, we're sharing highlights from previous interviews with a glaucoma specialist, retina specialist, and a low vision doctor. Listen in to learn more about common eye conditions, treatments, and what to expect at these specialist appointments.
-
Episode 53
Master Gardener Sue Brasel and Hadley's Chief Program Officer and gardener Ed Haines join us for a chat about gardening, no matter your level of vision or gardening experience. They share tips for how to get started, common challenges, and the many benefits of gardening.
-
Episode 52
We're joined by Carol Mackey, an avid discussion group participant, and co-host Debbie Worman to chat about what Hadley groups are, how to join, and what you can get out of them. With 10 groups on a variety of topics, there's something for everyone. Listen in or chime in – it’s up to you.
-
Episode 51
Bold Blind Beauty blogger Stephanae McCoy joins us for a chat on beauty, style and confidence. Stephanae talks about how vision loss shaped her life, and then shares some of her favorite fashion and beauty tips.
-
Episode 50
Hadley staff share their favorite kitchen gadgets and tips. Whether you're an experienced home chef or a total novice, you're bound to pick up a few ideas that fit your vision needs and make your time in the kitchen more productive (and fun).
-
Episode 49
We sat down with Kim Walker, co-director of research and development at Hadley, and Mark Andrews, one of the Hadley advisors who reviewed our exciting new approach for adults with vision loss to learn braille. From labeling items in your home to identifying buttons on an elevator, braille can be a wonderful tool for everyday use.
-
Episode 48
New York Times Best-Selling Author, Gretchen Rubin, chats about her research on how tapping into different senses can enrich our lives and connect us to each other in surprising ways.
-
Episode 47
Twin sisters Jenelle and Joy join the podcast to share their personal experiences with vision loss and adjusting to it emotionally. While they look identical, their perspectives and journeys differ, highlighting their mission to show that "there is no right way to go blind."
-
Episode 46
Hadley learner Sharon Noseworthy shares tips and tricks for hosting get-togethers of any type or size, no matter your vision. Sharon has always loved the role of hostess and has learned to adjust her approach now that her own vision has declined.
-
Episode 45
We're joined by Teepa Snow, occupational therapist and founder of Positive Approach to Care, to learn more about the challenges of having both vision loss and dementia. Teepa addresses common misconceptions about dementia and shares practical tips for supporting someone with both conditions.
-
Episode 44
We sat down with several Hadley staff members and asked them about their favorite tech tips, apps, and gadgets. Whether you consider yourself a tech expert or novice, the group recommends a variety of high-tech and low-tech options that fit your comfort level and interests.
-
Episode 43
Judge David Tatel has served on the second most powerful court in the country since 1994. He also happens to be blind. Judge Tatel joins us to share his story on building a law career and family while dealing with changing vision, the technology and resources he's found useful, and what made him consider getting a guide dog in recent years.
-
Episode 42
In honor of White Cane Safety Day today, we're joined by Hadley learner Larry Carlson and Orientation and Mobility Specialist Elijah Haines for a conversation about this important tool. Larry shares what made him decide to use a white cane, and Elijah shares tips for what to consider and how to adjust to using a white cane.
-
Episode 41
Supriya Raman, manager of the Disability and Multicultural branches of the TSA, shares tips on traveling among shifting COVID restrictions. Supriya covers what to expect at the airport and what resources are available for people with visual impairment.
-
Episode 40
Photographer Michael Nye chats with us about his latest art exhibit, "My Heart is Not Blind," a collection of photos and audio interviews of people with visual impairment. Through these stories, Michael provides a look into what he calls "our shared humanity and shared fragility," as well as common misunderstandings about blindness.
-
Episode 39
Champion blind golfer Chad NeSmith talks about how vision loss shaped his life, and how he shares his passion for golf with others with vision loss.
-
Episode 38
Doug Walker, Hadley co-director of R&D, and Ed Haines, Hadley Chief Program Officer, chat about the making of Hadley's "Adjusting to Vision Loss" workshop series. The series guides people through the emotional aspects of vision loss. Doug serves as the series' personal storyteller and narrator.
-
Episode 37
In this episode we chat with ophthalmologist Dr. Angela Elam from the University of Michigan. Dr. Elam addresses common questions and concerns, and shares her advice for returning to the eye doctor among shifting COVID restrictions.
-
Episode 36
Dorrie Rush, OE's Chief Content Officer, joins us for a chat about this wonderful online resource chock full of tips for living well with vision loss. You'll find great articles on using tech tools, tips for health and well-being, stories from others living with vision loss, a terrific podcast, and more.
-
Episode 35
Learn about a new service that’s just launched in 2020 called Accessible Pharmacy. Accessible packaging and labeling and personalized customer support all free of charge to the end consumer, and specifically designed for those with vision impairment.
-
Episode 34
Audio Describe the World! That’s the mantra of UniDescription: a free smartphone app that provides audio descriptions and navigation tips for US National Parks and other public places.
-
Episode 33
In this episode, we chat with low vision optometrist Dr. Mark Wilkinson from the University of Iowa. Dr. Wilkinson answers common questions and shares his advice for getting the most out of low vision optometry appointments.
-
Episode 32
Jan and Elgie Dow share how vision loss has changed their relationship and the advice they have for other couples.
-
Episode 31
Join Hadley advisor Eddie Becerra as he shares about losing his sight from diabetic retinopathy, and how he gained a new perspective on life.
-
Episode 30
Classically trained chef Regina Mitchell shares how vision loss shaped her life. Regina worked her way back into the kitchen and is now helping others cook with confidence, no matter their vision.
-
Episode 29
In this episode we sit down with the director of Well Connected, an organization that offers free, call-in groups for adults over 60 on a wide variety of interest areas: games, music, meditation and more.
-
Episode 28
Support groups can be a great way to connect with others who "get it." Listen in as as low vision support group leaders Lynndah Lahey and Judy Davis describe how their groups are run and what their members get out of them.
-
Episode 27
World-renowned artist John Bramblitt describes how vision loss has shaped his painting and his life.
-
Episode 26
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Tim Murray of the American Society of Retina Specialists. Dr. Murray treats eye diseases such as macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. He answers common questions and shares his insights into the future of treatments.
-
Episode 25
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jullia Rosdahl, a glaucoma specialist from the Duke Eye Center, and ask her some of the many questions we’ve heard about glaucoma, its risk factors, and how to treat the disease.
-
Episode 24
Hadley learning expert Jessica Smith shares her experience raising a puppy that may eventually become a guide dog. She covers what she’s learned and things to consider if you’d like to volunteer to help out a guide dog school.
-
Episode 23
October 15 is White Cane Safety Day, a day to recognize this important tool that empowers people with visual impairment to travel safely and independently. It also brings attention to the general public to be mindful of visually impaired neighbors, giving them additional consideration and right-of-way when needed. We sat down with Kellee Sanchez, an orientation and mobility specialist, to talk about the history of White Cane Safety Day, and how a white cane can help those with vision loss.
-
Episode 22
Be My Eyes is a free smartphone app that connects visually impaired users with sighted volunteers for help with visual tasks. We sat down with Will Butler from Be My Eyes to hear how the app started, tips for using it, and exciting new features that provide specialized assistance, including with Hadley.
-
Episode 20
Ophthalmologist Dr. Lori Provencher chats with us about how the coronavirus pandemic has changed doctor's visits. She shares tips for staying safe, questions to ask, and what to expect before, during and after your next office visit.
-
Episode 19
Mindfulness expert Tiffany Guske returns to the podcast to share tips and insights on how to cope with life's challenges, such as vision loss or an illness, building resilience and focusing on self-compassion instead of judgment.
-
Episode 18
Author of "When You Can't Believe Your Eyes," Hannah Fairbairn, chats with us about how to communicate in everyday situations when you can't rely on visual cues. Hear Hannah's own story about losing vision, her practical tips on adjusting to vision loss, and advice she has on regaining confidence in social situations.
-
Episode 17
In this episode, we continue the conversation on living during the COVID-19 pandemic with a visual impairment. Listen in as we share some experiences, tips, and strategies for coping during these difficult times.
-
Episode 16
The COVID-19 crisis has brought a wave of change and uncertainty to our everyday lives. Listen in as we share personal experiences, resources and some helpful tips...all from a blind or low vision perspective.
-
Episode 15
Assistive technology experts Ricky Enger and Steve Kelley review BlindShell, a mobile phone built for those with visual impairment. They discuss the basic features, how it differs from a traditional smartphone, and how to decide if it's right for you.
-
Episode 14
This week we sit down with Dan Roberts, author of "The First Year-Age-Related Macular Degeneration: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed" and founder of MDSupport website and support group. Hear Dan's own story about being diagnosed with macular degeneration and what prompted him to reach out to others facing similar circumstances.
-
Episode 13
Listen in as we explore the basics of using hand tools with a visual impairment. Gil Johnson, a visually impaired home repair expert, shares tips on everything from measuring, to leveling to hammering.
-
Episode 12
Elections are right around the corner. So we gathered a panel to talk about options for voting no matter your level of vision. Listen in as we explore everything you need to know, from registering to vote to the many ways you can cast your ballot.
-
Episode 11
Ricky sits down with Android Accessibility Product Manager Brian Kemler to discuss what is available on Android phones for those with visual impairment. From adjusting font size and color, or opting to listen with TalkBack instead, the commitment to making these powerful tools more useful to a wider audience is clear.
-
Episode 10
In this episode, we chat with Gil Johnson, an experienced home repair and woodworking enthusiast about things to consider when undertaking home repair with blindness or low vision.
-
Episode 9
Hadley's Debbie Good sits down to continue a conversation with author and visually impaired world traveler Dr. Wendy David. Together they explore a wide variety of helpful hints covering train, plane, and cruise travel as well as practical information on traveling internationally and navigating hotels.
-
Episode 8
In this episode, Ricky Enger chats with Joe Strechay, associate producer on the Apple TV+ series SEE. The show takes place in a future where, after a viral apocalypse, all humans are blind. Joe takes us behind the scenes of the show and his work to help build an inclusive set for the cast and crew, including those with low to no vision. From casting to costumes, scripting to scenery, hear how Joe helped create a science fiction world that strives to be authentic to life with vision loss.
-
Episode 7
Hadley's Debbie Good sits down with travel author Dr. Wendy David in this latest episode. In part one of this two-part interview, Debbie and Wendy discuss tips for traveling with confidence as a blind or low vision person, advice on picking destinations, considerations for traveling alone and in a group, and more!
-
Episode 6
Ricky Enger is joined by Hadley's Debbie Worman and mindfulness expert Tiffany Guske in this latest episode. Debbie and Tiffany talk about what mindfulness is and the specific benefits that mindfulness can offer for those living with vision loss. Tiffany then walks listeners through a short mindfulness exercise.
-
Episode 5
In this episode, Ricky Enger speaks with New York Times columnist Frank Bruni, who shares the story of his sudden vision loss from NAION. Bruni speaks candidly on his adjustment to the change, maintaining a realistic attitude towards his vision loss, and the failure of medical professionals to provide resources after diagnosis.
-
Episode 4
Listen in as we share practical tips on how to keep your handwriting readable. This resource-packed episode includes many useful techniques and solutions to common handwriting challenges. Hadley Learning Expert Jennifer Ottowitz chats with Sue Dalton, Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist.
-
Episode 3
In this episode, Hadley's Steve Kelley speaks with Kendra Farrow, from the National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision, located at Mississippi State. The episode serves as a guide for those new to vision rehabilitation, including determining who is eligible for services, key differences between the medical and social services models, and how to locate services in each state.
-
Episode 2
In this episode, Ricky Enger chats with Microsoft's Jeremy Curry, a Senior Program Manager with the Windows Accessibility team. New vision accessibility features are now available in Windows 10 for low vision and screen reader users.
-
Episode 1
In the inaugural episode of Hadley Presents, Ricky Enger and Jonathan Mosen of Aira chat about the ways in which a visual interpreter service, such as Aira, can be used to gain valuable visual information and enhance travel and leisure activities for blind and low vision users.