In 2024, I suffered large bleeds on both of my retinas. This lead to me losing my sight in both eyes. I am now registered as severely sight impaired and rely on a long cane to navigate my surroundings.

As my vision deteriorated, I was surrounded by loving and supportive family and friends. However, my anxiety about my future and my ability to cope with this life changing situation was at the forefront of my mind. I had to learn and adapt to a new way of living where even a basic activity such as making a sandwich felt like an impossible task. I felt daunted, and I still do some days.

My vision loss journey was made much easier with the support of My Sight Notts charity. They have provided me with invaluable support including:

Their eye clinic liaison officer who guided me through my diagnosis, helped me to fil in forms and referred me to support agencies in the community.

I have attended IT support groups where I have learnt to use assistive technology such as screen readers, voice dictation and magnifiers. All of which have given me the ability to remain in touch with friends and family, and access the internet again. I would not be able to write this without the help given to me in these classes.

The charity has also provided me with a social space to attend where I can take part in activities such as yoga classes and coffee mornings, helping me to feel less isolated.

I have received guidance from their employment specialist who has encouraged me to reflect on my career and the transferable skills I can utilise in the future.

I hope reading my experience above helps people to understand the valuable work that My Sight Notts performs. I truly do not know what I would have done without their support, guidance and resources. I am completing this challenge with my Dad, to show my appreciation and to help raise funds so that all people with sight loss can be supported to live a fulfilling life.

Sight loss can be a very frustrating and lonely place, please support in anyway you can, to spread the work of My Sight Nottinghamshire.

Thank you 😊