Classes give new sight

Free program at Oasis Senior Center teaches ways to work around problems associated with limited, fading vision. For every paid staff member at Braille Institute, there are 16 volunteers.

“We couldn’t do it without our volunteers,” said Linda Sellas, an instructor and low vision consultant at the Braille Institute.

Volunteers play many roles, a major one being they lead classes at various community centers and help educate the public about the technologies and services available for people with limited or no vision.

Ann Marie Sullivan, who’s been blind since birth, joined the Braille Institute as a volunteer in September and has found that she has much to offer in support and motivation.

Sullivan is one of several volunteers who leads a free monthly class at Oasis Senior Center for seniors with fading vision. Most of the participants are losing their sight due to macular degeneration, an incurable eye disease that affects more than 10 million Americans. It is the leading cause of blindness for Americans 55 or older.

Though her situation is different from those who attend the class, Sullivan is able to offer encouragement and is able to help them find new ways of expressing themselves, of performing daily tasks. And she motivates them, showing them they don’t have to give up the things they love to do. The group serves as somewhat of a support system for its members, many of whom have been attending the same class for several years.

“Whether you’re newly blind or you’ve been blind your whole life, you can make it work,” Sullivan said, referring to everyday tasks, such as reading, writing and cooking, that become more difficult with vision loss.

Dorothy Bowen, a Corona del Mar resident, only recently started losing her sight after being diagnosed with macular degeneration.

“I don’t feel any different than I ever did,” she said. “I just have to adapt. That’s what we all have to do is adapt. I’m not limited in any way except by myself.”

Bowen said the class meetings have helped her tremendously over the last year.

“We’re all at different stages” of the disease, she said. “I’ve learned so much from other people and what they can do. They’re all so optimistic. I’m grateful for this group because it’s helped me so much.”

Jay Uhlaner of Corona del Mar echoed Bowen.

“It’s educational,” he said. “You learn how to adapt yourself better, you learn what the disease is all about.... These groups are valuable for better expression and a better recognition of yourself.”

Aside from the classes held throughout the community, the Braille Institute also has a number of free services available for its students. The services include counseling, options for low vision, mobile solutions, and career assistance.

For more about local Braille Institute classes and services, call (714) 821-5000 or visit www.brailleinstitute.org. 20060208iucdmjncDON LEACH / DAILY PILOT(LA)Sarah Kidushim reads on a magnified screen at a Braille Institute class at Oasis Senior Center.