Search Engine What's it like to slowly go blind?
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Jul 28, 2023 Andrew Leland, a writer and author of "The Country of the Blind," shares his profound journey of gradually losing his sight over two decades. He offers insights into navigating the emotional landscape of vision loss and discusses the importance of mindfulness and technology in coping with such changes. Andrew emphasizes the need for accessibility in digital spaces, highlighting the power of alt text. He also reflects on the identities shaped by blindness and the diverse perspectives within the blindness activism community.
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Early Signs of Vision Loss
- Andrew Leland first noticed vision problems as a teenager in low-light situations.
- Initially, his mom dismissed it, but it worsened, affecting his ability to drive at night.
Diagnosis and Prognosis
- Receiving a diagnosis for retinitis pigmentosa (RP) provided relief.
- However, the prognosis of blindness by middle age felt distant and less impactful during youth.
Night Blindness as a Quirk
- In his 20s, Leland's night blindness became a quirky fact, not a barrier.
- It didn't impede his work, friendships, or relationships.