'Twas a good day~!!! A new way to see and read~!

[Grammy80]

Today I went to a low vision specialist~!!! The Iris Foundation had recommended it (I think that is the Iris Fund in the UK)

She is an opthamologist who specializes in maximizing what vision you have...and the exam was different....I was hoping to be able to get some implement that would allow me to read...like my mail etc., without a magnifying glass and help me maintain my independence. My left eye is blind and the right just not clear.

She put some heavy glasses on me that made me look like Einstein. She would slip lenses in and have me twist them to maximize what I could see on the opposite wall....the letters and numbers were so small. When I could see one of the lower lines I was so excited I could hardly sit still. I asked and then gave her a big hug~!!

I got a prescription for lenses that I will be able to read and also glasses that are called long distance glasses, see below. I can move the outer set of lenses on the glasses individually to bring thing into clear view....like binoculars. These are also great for macular degeneration she said. I'm so happy. I take quite a few meds and have been paying extra to have them prepackaged since I couldn't see the bottles to refill each week~!!

Another tip I'd like to share...I had taken my prescription sunglasses to one on those 'one hour eyeglass' places and had them pop out the dark lens on my 'good' eye and just put in a clear lens....then I didn't have to wear a patch on my 'bad' eye.

Just saying....no matter what spot you are in....don't give up hope.....it is OK to be sad sometimes for sure...but don't give up. I'll still have a few challenges ...and I'm sure not ready to drive now....but some challenges got removed today~!!!

Accept and hope and surround yourself with as many positive people as you can...like right here on this forum~!

You folks will never know what a difference you have made in my life and I'm grateful for you~!!!

xo

[SheffieldJane]

I love your optimism. We can achieve so much in that frame of mind. Bless your endeavours. I am glad you are walking with me.🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷

[Grammy80 in reply to SheffieldJane]

You are great company and the joy is all mine~~!!👬👬👬👬👬 We are a parade~!

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Good, a small step in one way, but a big one in another. 🌷

[Grammy80 in reply to DorsetLady]

I agree....if my right eye had stayed sharp and clear it would have been a different story. These two small things will make such a difference in day to day! I don't have many expenses...but evidently threw away an insurace bill but thankfully saw the cancellation notice and paid immediately. Recently, I had to hire someone to help me go through papers in my desk (I had more trash than treasure)....now I can do things like that myself! Take good care.....

[HeronNS]

This is very ineresting. Thanks for posting. <3

[Jackoh]

So pleased you have been receiving such positive help and that you obviously look for each silver lining!! Xx

[Grammy80 in reply to Jackoh]

Thanks...Jackoh~! I know I now own the GCA and there are ups and downs so I really enjoy those high points and I try to keep a sense of humor. I've always been an incurable optomist. Oh, I get down sometimes....but I want to savor every good moment.

Right now the Actemra and methylprednisolone are doing ok.....no guarantees though, so no time to waste.

[Orpheus82]

So pleased you found a low vision specialist. I run a Low Vision clinic in the hospital where I work in the U.K. and it is so rewarding when I can help someone. I have been hugged by people who realise that with a simple aid or two they can remain independent - makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside!