In this episode of Eyes and Lows, Matthew Reeves LPC, NCC, CRC, a licensed professional counselor, shares his journey and insights on navigating life with a disability. He discusses his personal experiences with Stargardt disease, the importance of resilience, and how he helps clients overcome challenges related to depression, anxiety, and trauma. Matthew also highlights the significance of self-care and building community for individuals with disabilities.

Takeaways

• Resilience is about transforming challenges into strengths.
• Stargardt disease affects central vision, leading to legal blindness.
• Self-care involves nourishing activities, not just indulgence.
• Building community is crucial for individuals with disabilities.
• Matthew Reeves specializes in depression, anxiety, and trauma therapy.
• Vision loss can lead to profound isolation and unique grieving processes.
• Matthew's approach focuses on solving root problems, not just symptoms.
• Entrepreneurship can be a viable path for people with disabilities.
• Matthew emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and independence.
• Contact Matthew at integralMHS.com for counseling services.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction to Eyes and Lows
• 00:00:00 Matthew Reeves' Journey
• 00:00:00 Understanding Stargardt Disease
• 00:00:00 Building Resilience and Community
• 00:00:01 Therapeutic Approaches and Self-Care
• 00:00:01 Entrepreneurship and Independence
• 00:00:01 Contact Information and Closing Remarks

Contact Matthew Reeves:

Email: http://integralmhs.com/

Podcast; http://insightoutpod.com/

Certifications: LPC, NCC, CRC

Services: Counseling services specializing in helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, and trauma. He also has expertise in dealing with issues related to disability and chronic illness, particularly focusing on vision loss and mental health.

Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word.

Learn more at Vocal Point at Seevp.org To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/

• Credits
  • Host: Brittany McLemore
  • Producer: Patrick Roy

In this episode of Eyes and Lows, we explore the inspiring journey of Saving Ven, a visionary leader and co-founder of the Visually Impaired Blind Society. Despite losing her sight at 41, Saving has dedicated her life to empowering others in the blind community. She shares her experiences of resilience, the challenges of navigating life with vision loss, and the importance of community support. Saving also discusses the founding of the Visually Impaired Blind Society and its mission to promote social interaction and independence among the blind and low vision communities.

Takeaways

• Saving Ven's journey from sighted to blind has fueled her passion for helping others.
• The Visually Impaired Blind Society was founded to promote social interaction and independence.
• Community support is crucial for individuals navigating vision loss.
• Saving emphasizes the importance of resilience and persistence in overcoming challenges.
• The society organizes events to bring together the blind and sighted communities.
• Saving's personal story highlights the power of turning adversity into opportunity.
• The society provides resources and guidance for those experiencing vision loss.
• Saving's leadership has inspired many within the blind community.
• The society's annual fundraising event is a key part of its outreach efforts.
• Saving's story is a testament to the strength and determination of the human spirit.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction to Saving Ven
• 00:00:36 Saving's Journey and Challenges
• 00:01:52 Founding the Visually Impaired Blind Society
• 00:26:47 Community Support and Events
• 00:48:33 Saving's Personal Interests and Hobbies
• 00:52:16 Contact Information and Closing Remarks
• Website:

www.vibsociety.org

• Email:

info@vibsociety.org

• Phone:

770-609-7439

Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word. Learn more at seevp.org. To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/

• Credits
  • Host: Brittany McLemore
  • Producer: Patrick Roy

In this episode of Eyes and Lows, host Brittany McLemore speaks with Dennis Darnes, a certified peer specialist and veteran, about his journey with vision loss, mental health, and recovery. Dennis shares his experiences with glaucoma, the challenges of navigating life as a blind person, and the importance of community support and advocacy. He discusses his journey to becoming a certified peer specialist, the tools and technology that assist him, and the significance of mental health awareness, especially within the blind community. Dennis emphasizes the need for education and understanding about blindness and shares inspiring stories of overcoming fears and achieving personal goals.

Takeaways

• Dennis Darnes is a certified peer specialist and Marine Corps veteran.
• He was diagnosed with glaucoma in 2008, leading to vision impairment.
• Dennis faced significant challenges in his daily life due to his condition.
• He found support and training at the Center for the Vision Impaired.
• Dennis became a certified peer specialist to help others with similar experiences.
• He emphasizes the importance of community and support systems.
• Technology has played a crucial role in his adaptation to blindness.
• Dennis learned to navigate life with humor and resilience.
• He encourages others to embrace their challenges and seek help.
• Dennis highlights the need for awareness and resources for the visually impaired. Independence can be redefined after losing sight.
• Trust is essential in navigating relationships post-vision loss.
• Building a support network is crucial for personal growth.
• Stigma around blindness often stems from a lack of education.
• Advocacy is necessary to raise awareness about blindness.
• Mental health issues can arise from significant life changes.
• Recovery is possible with the right support and resources.
• Engaging in community activities can foster understanding.
• Overcoming fears can lead to new and exciting experiences.
• Personal responsibility is key to navigating life with blindness.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Mental Health and Blindness

01:59Dennis Darnes: A Journey Through Vision Loss

08:17Becoming a Certified Peer Specialist

14:01Navigating Life with Blindness

22:08Tools and Technology for the Visually Impaired

30:31Trust and Vulnerability in Relationships

36:17Advocacy and Education for the Blind Community

44:55Mental Health Awareness and Stigma

52:10Overcoming Fears and Achievements

55:04Connecting with the Community

Vocal Point (Home of the Georgia Radio Reading Service) is a 501c3 organization that exists to improve the quality of life for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have difficulty with the printed word. Learn more at seevp.org. To support our podcast and programs, donate here: https://connect.clickandpledge.com/Organization/seevp/

• Credits
  • Host: Brittany McLemore
  • Producer: Patrick Roy