Opinion

Learn about resources available to the blind

Posted March 25, 2013 5:00 am

Kudos to Dr. Jared Cooper for encouraging awareness of macular degeneration (“Doctor encourages awareness of macular degeneration,” Feb. 21). As the article points out, macular degeneration is a widespread condition and is the leading cause of visual impairment among older people. One of Dr. Cooper’s patients said that “going blind was like being in prison.”

I don’t believe it has to be that way. While losing sight for any reason and at any age can be initially overwhelming and challenging, it does not have to stop an individual from living and enjoying life fully. In fact, I believe that individuals who are blind or visually impaired can do almost anything sighted individuals can do; we just do it differently. I live this belief every day as a visually impaired person myself.

I encourage Dr. Cooper’s patients and anyone else who is experiencing vision loss to learn more about macular degeneration and the many resources available to support them.

Dawn Turco

Senior vice president

The Hadley School for the Blind

Winnetka

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