Living with Visual Impairment and Finding Strength in Speaking Up
The other day, I was reminded—sharply and unexpectedly—that I’m living with visual impairment.
I had been looking forward to returning to a video editing class. But during the session, the instructor asked everyone to gather around his tiny camera screen to review the footage. I stood quietly behind the group, trying my best to follow along.
But I couldn’t see what everyone else was seeing.
That moment hit me hard. I wanted to hide, to pretend it didn’t matter. Today, I stayed home. I knew they’d be diving into editing, and I didn’t want to sit through another session missing most of what was being taught.
But here’s what I want to say, both to myself and to anyone else living with visual impairment: you deserve to be there. You deserve to see. And you have every right to ask for the tools and access you need.
Accepting My Reality Without Shame
Living with visual impairment doesn’t mean I’ve lost sight of everything—it just means my view is different. And sometimes, that difference becomes most obvious in group settings where accessibility isn’t built in.
In those moments, it’s tempting to stay silent. To avoid the “ordeal” of asking for help or adjustments. I know that feeling all too well. But that silence comes at a cost—our inclusion, our learning, and our confidence.
Encouragement for Others on the Same Path
If you’re living with visual impairment or any disability, please hear me: you are not asking for too much. Asking for accommodations is not a burden—it’s a step toward equal access. It’s how we make room for ourselves in spaces that weren’t designed with us in mind.
I’m learning to speak up. I’m learning to advocate. And while it’s not always easy, it’s always worth it.
Advocacy Groups and Resources
You don’t have to walk this path alone. Here are some wonderful organizations that support people living with visual impairment:
- National Federation of the Blind (NFB) – Advocating for independence and equal rights.
- American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) – Offering research, technology, and career support.
- VisionAware – A practical guide for navigating life with low vision.
- Hadley – Free learning resources for blind and visually impaired adults.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve to Take Up Space
To anyone who has skipped a class, a meeting, or a moment because your needs felt too big—please know this:
You are not a problem to solve. You are a person with a unique view of the world.
And your view matters.