Blindness Is a Spectrum: Real Voices, Real Stories
When most people think of blindness, many imagine total darkness—but the truth is far more nuanced. In the premiere episode of our new podcast Eyes Closed, Mind Open, we explore this complexity through four powerful stories. Hosted by Hannah Kinsey and joined by Melissa, Catherine and Red, this heartfelt discussion reminds us that blindness is not a one-size-fits-all experience—it’s a spectrum.
Living Across the Spectrum
Hannah Kinsey, blind since birth, shares how her world is shaped by light perception and sensitivity. “Though I say I’m completely blind, I can see light,” she explains. Her perspective highlights the importance of early adaptation, technology, and navigating life from day one without full sight.
Melissa finds herself in the “middle” of the spectrum. Losing her sight gradually over three years, she opens up about the emotional weight of change. “It’s a big pill to swallow,” she says. Yet, her story is also one of hope—finding community at NewView Oklahoma and inspiration from peers who’ve already walked this path.
Catherine’s experience bridges the stages. She lost vision in one eye after a glaucoma diagnosis and eventually in the other. Despite the challenges, she keeps her spirit and independence alive—cooking, cleaning, and even managing the complexities of family life.
Red brings another vital voice: that of a sighted partner. Her husband Galen lost his vision due to glaucoma and diabetes. Red’s insights into caregiving, mutual respect, and adaptation reflect the experience of countless families adjusting to vision loss together.
The Power of Support
Each participant stresses the need for early intervention, therapy, and community. From mobility training and assistive tech to counseling and mutual respect at home, these tools are not luxuries—they’re lifelines.
“You’re not alone,” Red reminds listeners. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or navigating the unknown, connecting with others who understand is essential.
Adapting, Not Quitting
What stands out most in this conversation is resilience. Hannah plays music with perfect pitch. Catherine bakes show-stopping cheesecakes. Galen, despite vision loss, still creates art. As Melissa puts it, “It’s not the end for me. There’s still life after blindness.”
And that’s the heart of NewView Oklahoma’s mission: empowering individuals with low vision to live independently, confidently, and meaningfully.
Because blindness may change how you see the world, but it never limits what you bring to it.
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Listen now to Episode 1 of Eyes Closed, Mind Open — Available Anywhere You Listen to Podcasts.
