A person’s independence and well-being is something that many of us take for granted. However, situations can occur when someone’s independence can be taken away from them. When that happens, it can be very difficult to know what your next step is and how to cope. The following is the story of Daphne*, a woman who once had perfect vision but now has to learn how to regain her independence with impaired vision.

Over the course of time, Daphne realized that her vision was continually getting worse. Things like reading, cooking, driving and walking became increasingly more difficult. At times, Daphne began to worry for her health and safety. She went to her doctor and was informed that an operation would not be able to restore her vision 100%. She was in shock. That shock quickly turned into fear and despair. Daphne began feeling depressed and was crying all the time. The small things that she was once able to do everyday at her convenience became extremely difficult if not impossible for her. She is now unable to drive a car, cook without assistance or read the newspaper. She even stopped going for her evening walk because it is harder for her to see at night and she grew afraid. Daphne felt completely lost and living her daily life was feeling more like a chore than a privilege.

Having seen the difficult time that Daphne was going through, one of her good friends recommended that she call the CNIB. At first, Daphne was hesitant. She felt that the CNIB was only for people who were completely blind and that they wouldn’t be able to help someone like her. Although uncertain, Daphne called the CNIB and it was the best decision she ever made. The staff at the CNIB talked to her, listened to her fears and apprehensions. In return, they provided Daphne with the support and encouragement she needed to get through this difficult time. The staff and volunteers took the time to help Daphne learn how to do everything she wanted to again, safely. She learned how to take the bus and cook meals. With the use of a magnifier, she can now read the newspaper and her mail. She learned about the selection of talking books that were available at the public library and has fallen in love with reading all over again. Most importantly, Daphne is able to go on her evening walks, without fear or reservation.

Within the last year, the CNIB helped Daphne secure funds to purchase a computer with an adapted screen that allows her to see large print. She is now able to send e-mails to friends and family and research on the internet. Daphne said that, “CNIB provided me the opportunity to be myself again, and for that I am grateful”!

Life is full of unexpected surprises and unfortunately not all of them are positive. Daphne’s story is a true example of how important it is for our community to have support and services readily available to help our fellow citizens get through the tough times. The Brant United Way is proud to partner with Agencies in our community who are working everyday to provide the necessary support to people in our community.

A safe, supportive community is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you need to further develop your skills, emergency support services, food, counselling or safe and fun programs for your children, we are here to ensure that you have access to them.

Everyone in our community has something to contribute and together, we can create real, lasting change for our fellow citizens.

*Names have been changed for confidentiality