Colleen’s Story

Colleen’s Story: Embracing Change, Building Confidence, and Finding Community

Facing the Diagnosis

When Colleen was diagnosed in her early 50s with early onset macular degeneration, she wasn’t surprised—it ran in her family. But knowing something might happen and actually living through it are two very different things. Gradually, her central vision faded, leaving her to rely mostly on her peripheral sight. On top of that, she began experiencing visual hallucinations—a common but unsettling side effect of the condition.

Navigating Work and Realizing She Needed More

At the time, Colleen was working full-time as a mortgage underwriter. Thankfully, her employer was supportive and helped her set up tools to accommodate her vision in a home office. Still, she knew she needed more.

A Life-Changing Referral to Vision Forward

In 2020, a new ophthalmologist referred her to Vision Forward, suggesting she could benefit from more resources and support. That referral opened a new chapter in her journey and possibilities she couldn’t have imagined.

Discovering Tools and Technology

At Vision Forward, Colleen connected with Dr. Hinson, who helped her better understand her diagnosis and what was possible. She also began working with Lauren, our occupational therapist, and Luke, our assistive technology specialist. Together, they introduced her to accessible tech solutions like using a verbal navigator in Microsoft Word, and taught her how to maximize productivity through keyboard shortcuts and screen readers.

Today, Colleen’s toolbox includes bump dots, the PenFriend (which she says she can’t live without), the Seeing AI app, and soon, a pair of Meta Smart Glasses—a recommendation from members of the Vision Forward support group.

Finding Strength in Community

That support group, in fact, became a cornerstone of Colleen’s progress.

The people were so welcoming and open,” she says. “They made it easier to ask questions, share what I was going through, and learn from others who understood.

It was the group that encouraged her to start using a white cane—not just for navigation, but so that others would recognize she has a visual impairment. “If you just look at me, you wouldn’t know,” she explains. “The cane helps tell people something I shouldn’t always have to explain.”

In her group, she also learned that movie theaters had headphones for people with visual impairments that would allow her to hear what is described in each scene—often picking up more details than her sighted husband.

Rediscovering Joy Through Creativity

In addition to her newfound tech skills and support network, Colleen has also embraced her creative side. She joined a knitting class at Vision Forward, where she learned how to adapt the craft to her visual needs—proving that vision loss doesn’t have to limit the things you love. She is now retired, which leaves her more free time to learn and experience more through different eyes.

Words of Wisdom

When asked what advice she would give to others, Colleen shares from the heart:

Be open. Ask for help when you need it. It takes time and effort, but investing in your independence is worth it.

Thanks to her resilience, her community, and her willingness to grow, Colleen isn’t just managing her vision loss—she’s thriving.