"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 48
When Carmel heard a Hadley podcast, it helped her understand what had been happening to her along with her vision loss—something she had nicknamed her "phantom vision."
Carmel mentions an episode of our sister podcast, Hadley Presents. Here's a link to that episode on Vision Loss and Charles Bonnet Syndrome.
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Episode 47
It was tough for Linda to give up driving and she was heartbroken when reading became difficult. She felt her world was shrinking. But then she asked for help.
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Episode 46
Ashia felt all alone in her vision loss. No one around her knew what she was going through. Then she found something that gave her hope.
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Episode 45
Dennis found that many aspects of life with vision loss can be a struggle. Then he found something that turned that around.
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Episode 44
Judy has lived with progressive vision loss for many years. She's found a way that helps her cope and adjust.
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Episode 43
For years Bill hid his vision loss from others. He was self-conscious about it. Then, he decided to open up.
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Episode 42
For Cynthia, every story shared helps her on her own journey with vision loss.
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Episode 41
Living with low vision meant Karen was constantly explaining to others what she can and can't see. Then she found a tool that has made a big difference.
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Episode 40
Having to give up the car keys was traumatic for Eugenia. She worried about becoming isolated until she found a new way.
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Episode 39
This week, hear how rediscovering a favorite activity helped Celia find balance as she adjusts to vision loss.
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Episode 38
Denise can struggle with the slow but continuous loss of vision she's facing. But she's found a way to pick herself up on a bad day.
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Episode 37
Listen in as Vanessa shares what has helped keep her from feeling hopeless and defeated due to vision loss.