I think that I have always taken my vision for granted. I guess I thought it would always be there. I never imagined my life without the gift of sight. In the last few weeks I have come to realize that vision certainly is a gift, never to be taken for granted.
If I gave my eyesight any thought at all over the years is was to acknowledge that as I grew older I would probably need glasses. I didn't get glasses until I turned 40, bi-focal's at 45, I was right on schedule. I lost the vision part of my health insurance so from 48 to 53 I did not have an eye exam.
This spring I noticed that things in the distance didn't seem as sharp and that when reading or doing close up work it took longer for things to focus and become clear. I sucked it up and made the appointment. That was 3 weeks ago.
In less than a month I am having cataract surgery on my right eye. Before the year end I will also have it done on my left eye.
My doctor has reassured me that he has done this many,many times, as has his associate. Thousands of times. I don't have any doubt of his credentials. I know he is a wonderful doctor. My fear is in the what-if factor.
Should I contact the Society for the Blind? Should I start taking Braille lessons? Should I move closer to town where public transportation is available?
Am I going nuts? Probably. Am I panicking? Most definitely.
I do know that from now on I will not leave my home without sunglasses on my face. I don't have any of the other factors that might cause cataracts. I have just never worn sunglasses. I didn't know their importance.
I have learned that when you have been given a gift, you don't ever take it for granted.
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Hey thanks for the tip. I'm going right out to buy a pair of sunglasses tomorrow!
ReplyDeletei had mine removed in my early 40's--and, it was the most amazing thing ever in my life. not only did i realise how brown things had been looking (with one eye at a time, you see clear and sharp and so very, very white and colourful) but, my doctor, being a swell guy, did rk on my eyes, thus, delivering me from glasses for the first time in my life.
ReplyDeletesure, i wear readers...but, to wake up every morning to a crisp clear view of the world is well worth it.
All the best with your surgery - vision is truly a gift that we don't appreciate until it is at risk.
ReplyDeleteI don't think there is anything abnormal or crazy about being nervous about surgery as long as you go on and have it done. I look forward to you posting about how much better you can see and how wonderful it is to have it behind you :)
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