Friday, December 12, 2008

Blind on the Short Bus

Doesn't the title of this post sound like a country song? Feel free to use it if you're ever composing something that fits. I'm generous that way and I've always wanted to show up in someone's liner notes.

According to my new neuro-ophthalmologist I am certifiably visually impaired. I have a signed form that qualifies me for the MBTA Ride--think short bus for grown-ups. Yup, I'll be on the short bus with all the little old ladies going to Walmart and the people in wheelchairs going to work...as soon as the Commonwealth of Massachusetts processes and approves my application. Knowing my wonderful state government, that will not be a speedy process.

I was becoming a danger behind the wheel--convincing myself that I could see well enough to go to the store when we needed milk, etc. So, I decided to talk to the neuro-opthalmologist and take myself off the rode if he agreed. It's better than having the Registry of Motor Vehicles make the decision for me. Or worse.

I wouldn't want to be crossing the road with my children with someone with my eyesight behind the wheel. I'm relieved and I'm sad.

5 comments:

  1. Julie, I'm so sorry to hear it! What does this mean for your work? Sending positive energy your way! -Lisa C.

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  2. I haven't driven in 3 years and it has been really odd. In some ways, it has improved my life (no more commuting, found a job closer to home) but it makes everything a lot harder too. I hate relying on others for rides or getting tired taking the bus everywhere.

    I failed the peripheral vision test at the eye doctor a couple of weeks ago. It was sad but felt good to have confirmation. Things really do come out of nowhere and now I understand why I run into door frames, etc.

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  3. Ugh, sorry to hear about this...
    I don't even want to contemplate the lifestyle changes necessary if they had to pry MY truck keys from my stiff lil' fingers...
    Happy holidays!

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  4. WHOOT??? Dayum...all I can come up with are swear words or bizarre computer letters to express my sadness/anger/grief for you.

    Linda D. in Seattle

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  5. How long did it take for your eyesight to fade? Was there time to adjust, or was it sudden?

    Such a difficult loss...

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