I’m writing this from a ski resort in Northern Idaho—the same ski resort where I hit rock bottom two years ago and decided to do everything in my power to save my eyesight.
I started this quest hoping that if I fought hard enough, I could regain my eyesight and get back to a normal-sighted life. What I’ve learned is that this eyesight-saving fight is a slow, hard process—and that if I want to preserve the vision I have, it’s something I’m going to have to work for the rest of my life.
Today I have more eyesight in my outer periphery than I did two years ago. My central vision hasn’t changed: I still see life through a hole that amounts to the size of a letter slot at the post office. And when the light is dim, I have a hard time seeing at all. But the good news is that I still have a small opening of central vision that enables me to see my family, write on my computer, read, walk in the daylight unassisted, and go to the gym for regular workouts.
What I’ve learned is that preserving our eyesight is mainly up to us. It comes down to the following—and there’s plenty of research to back this up.
- Healthy diet
- Good base of vitamins & minerals
- Lots of clean water
- Regular, vigorous exercise
- Healthy lifestyle: no smoking, moderate alcohol consumption, limited coffee, reduce stress
- Positive attitude
- Eye exercises
- Other stimulation to keep the blood and oxygen flowing to the eyes: micro current stimulation, acupuncture, etc.
- ENJOY LIFE
This year, I’m taking a more balanced approach to my eyesight saving quest. I’m putting emphasis on all the things I can do on my own—things that require time and commitment, but not a lot of money. I’ll touch base occasionally to update you all on my continuing eyesight saving quest. But as part of my more balanced approach to life, I’m also cutting back on my blog posts.
Thank you all for taking this journey with me. We CAN save our eyesight. It’s starts with believing. If you want to engage in regular dialogue, please join our Determined to See Facebook Group.
Here’s to our eyesight — and to all of us.
Dear Ingrid,
You have been an inspiration to so many people including us. I do hope your continuing journey is a joyous one. My daughter is in NJ now for her second treatment and she is marvellous in keeping a positive outlook. We are investigating long term solutions as well and I will keep you informed when we find anything that may be helpful to you.
we would love to keep in contact so please do not disappear from the boards altogether.
I have spoken to a couple people here in our home town about your interest in researching your family history. I have some leads so please get in touch with me when you are making your travel plans. We are here for you.
All the best,
Kathryn
I can’t believe it’s been two years already. Thank you for having shared so much here, and congratulations on what you’ve achieved – increased peripheral vision, maintaining your central vision, and gaining so much knowledge to help you in this ongoing quest. I wish you so much luck!
Ing, I sure remember that day two years ago. You have come so far… maybe not as far as you would’ve liked with your eyesight but the number of people you’ve informed and inspired is immeasurable. You are an asset to this planet my dear friend!! Love you~
Your perseverance, attitude and positive outlook, your commitment in helping others, your balanced healthy lifestyle, your amazingly talented writing skills, your ability to still look like a teenager… Well Ingrid, lets just say you have touched and inspired so many lives – including mine. Science and research are moving at the speed of light
I’m sorry to hear there will be less posting. But I understand. I think we all do. But please keep this blog going. It is a lifeline for many of us. I know that’s a lot of pressure. But you started something beautiful here. Take care.