"It's a work in progress"

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].