A Blind Life

Hi there! I’m Karl with a K, and my experience with the world has been uniquely shaped from the start. Born with a degenerative retinal condition, my vision has gradually declined over time. 

When I was just a toddler, a surprising turn of events changed my life. An ophthalmologist in our neighborhood happened to notice an issue with my eyes, and encouraged my parents to go to the local eye clinic for further evaluation. So we did. Many eye specialists predicted that I would be completely blind by the age of sixteen.

I am legally blind and have been for about half my life. Today, I navigate the world with 4% central-focused vision from only one eye. 

But here's the thing: sight isn't everything!

Living life to the fullest has always been my driving force. Knowing that my sight would deteriorate further, I fearlessly pursued my passions and higher education. I rock climbed, ice climbed, skydived, joined a blind bowling league, explored the world, and navigated long-distance hikes with a white cane and a backpack. With support and perseverance, I earned advanced degrees in Special Education and Mental Health. These 'adapt and evolve' experiences are an essential part of who I am today.

As my vision fades, my desire to help others grows stronger. My personal experiences have given me a unique perspective, and I hope to use my knowledge to support others. 

Sure, there have been obstacles along the road, but I've never let them define me. Learning Braille, guide dog school and adapting with assistive technology have been my tools for independence. Together they help me navigate the world with confidence. My wife, family, friends, a trusty white cane and two amazing guide dogs have been my partners on this incredible journey. 

In 2024, I made a difficult decision to manage my most recent visual challenge. Though my right eye was technically healthy, the retina kept detaching. Over a three year period, I had 15 surgical procedures to save the little bit of vision in my right eye. Eventually, the light signals stopped getting through. Silicone oil, laser treatments and surgical scar tissue took their toll and were now creating other problems. I had to make a decision, a hard one. Keep the problem eye and hope for a medical breakthrough that would restore my vision or have the eye surgically removed. 

I consulted with my team of eye specialists, and they each gave me medical advice based upon their specialization and current science. Talking to someone who had a very similar experience helped me weigh the real-life pros and cons. To preserve the health of my left eye, I underwent surgery to permanently remove my right eye. With only 4% central vision, it was a tough choice, but one that will allow me to continue living life to the fullest.
 

I’m sharing my story because I believe in the power of connection. If you’re facing similar challenges, I’m here to offer support and hope. 

Through this website, I want to share what it's like to live a happy life with visual loss, but even more importantly, I want to inspire YOU!  What truly matters is that many things are possible, regardless of the challenges you face.

Thanks for joining me on this adventure and feel free to ask me anything. 

Let’s connect and inspire each other.

-Karl