It is not obvious when you meet me that I have a severe eyesight condition. It is called cone rod dystrophy and cannot be fixed by putting my glasses on (trust me I have tried this). I have worn contact lenses since I was 11 but even so my vision is extremely limited.
Here is some advice on working with me and my eyesight,
- I hold things very close to my face, or my face very close to things in order to read them. It is natural for me, don't let it make you feel uncomfortable.
- Whilst I am pretty good at making presentations, I will find it hard to see your PowerPoint slides, no matter how cool your computer. Send me an electronic version or provide handouts if you need me to see it.
- Text at point 18-20 is good but I prefer normal print-size rather than too many unwieldy pages.
- I sometimes wear Ray Bans inside and in winter. This is because sunlight and daylight overwhelms my eyes and sunglasses help.
- I can see what you look like (especially if you are attractive). I can't see what colour eyes you have. I have limited ability to distinguish between colours. I set my own computer screen to White or Yellow on Black.
- I will at some point blank you in the corridor or in the street. There is a 95% chance that this is nothing personal.
- I can't see to drive. I have no interest in cars and no knowledge of parking. However, I am highly mobile and enjoy travel. And yes, I would like a lift, please.
- If we have arranged to meet, once I am near, say something like ‘hi Steve, it's xx here'. This will deprive you of the fun of watching me introduce myself to strangers but could save us both time.
- I can rarely see street signs, names etc. I am rubbish at stopping taxis. If we are going somewhere I am happy for you to lead but I am also unlikely to ask for your help as I am assertive and independent.
- Even though I can't see well I am extremely observant.
- For more on me,see my blog
Stephen
