Jan’s Story

Jan’s Handmade Hope:
Finding Joy Through Vision Loss

A Life Full of Creativity, Suddenly in Question
At 78 years old, Jan could have given up on the things she loved. Diagnosed with macular degeneration and atrophy in both eyes, she feared that her days of crafting beautiful, detailed greeting cards were over. Once able to rely on her vision for intricate designs and careful painting, she now struggled to see clearly out of one eye, with very limited vision in the other. The loss felt overwhelming.

She Knew About Vision Forward—But Didn’t Need It Yet

Though Jan had known about Vision Forward for years, she never imagined she’d need their services. Back then, her vision hadn’t declined enough to interfere with her daily life. But when that changed, and she found herself unable to do the activities that once brought her joy, she realized it was time to seek support.

Finding Hope and Honest Answers

Referred by her eye doctor, Jan came to Vision Forward looking for clarity and help. One of her first questions to Dr. Hinson was one that had been weighing on her mind: “Will I go blind?” Dr. Hinson responded with the honesty and directness Jan needed—replacing fear with understanding, and hopelessness with a plan.

A New Approach to Doing What She Loves

Before coming in, Jan had nearly lost hope of continuing her beloved crafts. But Dr. Hinson encouraged her to write down the things she still wanted to do—and together, they started working toward those goals.

With support from the Vision Forward team and tools like a Gooseneck LED light, a handheld 3x LED lighted magnifier, and daily living aids like a large print calendar and check register, Jan adapted. Slowly but surely, her confidence and creativity returned.

Cards That Tell a Story—And Inspire Others

Today, Jan is back to doing what she loves—designing and crafting one-of-a-kind greeting cards for all occasions. Each handmade card takes her between two hours and two days to complete and is filled with detail, care, and love.

Her beautiful creations are now available for purchase at the Vision Forward Store, bringing joy not only to the recipients but to everyone who sees the passion behind them.

Support at Home—and a Message for Others

Jan feels deeply grateful for her husband Larry, her partner of 59 years, who now handles the driving and supports all of her creative endeavors. She often says she wishes she had come to Vision Forward sooner.

With the help of low vision tools and training, she’s still able to paint a little, read, and bring fine details to life in her crafts. “I focus on what I can do,” Jan says. “And I’m still creating. It may look different, but it still brings me—and others—so much joy.”

Inspiring Others to Take the First Step

Jan hopes that sharing her story will help other older adults with vision loss feel less alone—and more empowered. Her message is simple but powerful: Vision loss doesn’t mean giving up on the things you love. It just means learning new ways to keep doing them.