According to the National Eye Institute by 2020 it is estimated that 5.5 million people of all ages will be blind or have low vision. Low vision is impairment that cannot be corrected by standard eyeglasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery. That is one out of 28 and that is shocking. We also have a diabetes epidemic that can lead to diabetic retinopathy. Is the world ready? I don’t think so. Are you aware of what this might mean to you?

The purpose of this book is to let listeners know that loss of eyesight is not a death sentence. Twelve people have shared their stories detailing how they met the enemy in their own lives and how they cope on a day-to-day basis. Some of them were born blind or became blind after a period of normal sight. Others have slowly lost vision and have learned to cope at different stages. Emotions play a major part in this experience and listening to how others dealt with anger and depression helps the newcomers know they are not alone.

The book began as a tribute to my husband who became instantly blind at the age of 10. When we married I entered his world and became a part of the low-vision community and still am in relationship with them even though my husband died in 2016. It is in Tucson, Arizona where I met the folks who graciously shared their stories with me. They detail not just the physical facts, but the emotional turmoil that took over when they were first told they had low vision that could not be restored with eyeglasses; or, they were blind or would gradually become so. Including resources, organizations, and definitions, along with the stories makes this book useful to much of the population and particularly to those over the age of 60.

I believe people who are already experiencing low vision will find this book valuable because of the sense of support they find in the stories, and resources they might not be aware of. Inspirational Stories of the Visually Challenged plus Resources might not be something you need, but think about someone you know, be it family, friend, or co-worker. I think you will be thanked profusely.