"It's a work in progress"
Cheri's vision loss has been gradual yet relentless. Asking for help to do things she used to be able to do on her own is a challenge for her, as it is for many. But she's finding some new tools and new ways to do things.
Hadley
It’s a work in progress
Cheri: It's really hard when you've always been able to do stuff yourself to turn around and go, hey, can you give me a ride? Or can you help me shop but it's a work in progress.
Marc: This is Hadley’s Insights and Sound Bites, where people facing vision loss share what has helped them cope and adjust.
Cheri: Hi, my name is Cheri Brockway. I live in Kentucky, by the way. And it's been a journey, but I lost my sight to R.P. and so it was gradual. So, I really tried to be and take care of everything in that I could. And so, I feel blessed that I have those memories because I have, total loss now.
But you know what? I still function. I still try to do as much as I can on my own. I think one of the hardest parts of not being able to see is asking for help. It's really hard when you've always been able to do stuff yourself to turn around and go, hey, can you give me a ride?
Or can you help me shop or something? But, it's a work in progress and I don't know, I guess it's just a guilt of taking up somebody's time, but I'm trying to get over that. And I do have people who help me. But it is difficult sometimes. I've had guide dogs, love them all. I use a cane and there's a lot of things out there that make it easier for us that can’t see.
And I heard about the meta glasses, and I really would like to try them, though I hear they're kind of expensive.
But I just wanted to say thank you to Hadley because I thought I was too old to learn braille. I'm going to be 65 and that's for young people. But by golly, I'm really enjoying it. And I thank Hadley, for letting me take my dear, sweet time because it's taken me a minute, but hopefully I’ll get it.
And it's kind of fun. I actually had a mobility trainer talk me into trying it and I like it, so never think you're too old. I hope everybody enjoys their summer. And I thank you for letting me talk. Have a great day.
Marc: Insights & Sound Bites has made possible by Hadley’s donors. Who understand that hearing someone else’s story can truly make a difference.
You never know who might need to hear your story. If you’d like to share with us, just leave us a message on our Insights & Sound Bites voicemail. By calling, 847-512-4867. Or, you can use your smartphone or computer and email us a recording to [email protected].
All Episodes
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Episode 60
Diabetic retinopathy has taken more and more of Charles's vision. To cope, he is learning new approaches to life AND leaning into areas of passion that don't rely on sight.
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Episode 59
Bruce's vision had been decreasing for years. When it reached the point where he was tripping over objects and bumping into people, he felt embarrassed and kept his vision loss a secret. His wife convinced him to try something new.
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Episode 58
Marie grieved the loss of her vision, and still does. Yet, on a sunny August morning, she came to a realization that made all the difference in the world.
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Episode 57
Terry's doctor told him, "There's nothing more we can do. You'll never drive again," and he was distraught. Then he recalled his military days as a Marine and sailor, and that got him through.
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Episode 56
When Emma lost her sight in just a few months, she struggled to cope. She felt alone, her insecurities grew, and self-esteem plummeted. With time, she came to a new understanding and that helped her tremendously.
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Episode 55
Dave calls his experience with vision loss a slow torture. In the face of this, however, he has found a sense of inspiration in explorers, history, and an activity you wouldn't typically connect with vision loss, sightseeing.
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Episode 54
When Albert's vision decreased to the point that he could no longer read print anymore, he found it stressful. But he's found a new source of comfort that helps him quite a bit.
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Episode 53
Jayne can feel isolated living with her eye disease, spending much of her days forcing herself to focus on things that have become blurry. The stress can be overwhelming, causing her to shut down. But there's one area of life that now brings her more joy than ever before.
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Episode 52
When Jeffry lost his sight, he felt a loss of control, a loss of dignity. Then, he began his long road to empowerment, one small goal at a time.
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Episode 51
Marilyn went through bouts of anxiety and depression with her vision loss and still grieves the loss several years into her journey. She also decided to do something for herself which has helped tremendously.
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Episode 50
Learning to live with vision loss wasn't always easy for Pam. But with time, her bad days are fewer.
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Episode 49
Jennifer didn't know what to do or who to go to for help as her vision was fading. Then, by chance, she found some help. She found some direction.
The book referenced in this episode is "Macular Degeneration: The Complete Guide to Saving and Maximizing Your Sight"