Meet Caroline, she lives in Nelson, where she’s enjoying her retirement. She has one grown son whom she loves deeply and stays connected with friends and family. Travelling has always been a passion for Caroline, though her life changed at 56 when she was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy.
“It happened very quickly,” notes Caroline. “I went in for my regular check at the hospital when the ophthalmologist noticed something different.”
Caroline grew up on a farm, surrounded by animals, and left school at 15 to work in hospitality. Today, she focuses on staying connected and living as independently as possible.
Caroline joined Blind Low Vision NZ in 2013 to access support as her vision changed. Tools like talking clocks, watches, and social meetups like coffee mornings have helped her stay connected and independent.
During the Covid lockdowns, Caroline embraced creativity, writing a book about her farm animals—especially her beloved guinea pig, Norman.
Another lockdown project was her tandem bike journey. “Together with support from Erin at Blind Low Vision NZ, we raised funds to get a tandem bike that suited me,” she says. “We made it happen, and I was determined to put it to good use.” Caroline planned to complete the rail trail and then donate the bike to Blind Low Vision NZ so others could benefit too. While Covid put those plans on hold, the bike was still donated, ensuring it could be enjoyed by others.
Despite these challenges, the book has been quite the success with over 400 copies already sold through local bookstores. Although, adjusting to life with low vision hasn’t always been easy. As her vision worsened, Caroline had to give up driving. It was a big adjustment, as she could no longer take spontaneous trips or visit friends in places like Invercargill. But Caroline has adapted. “Life just goes on,” she says. “I’m quite happy.”
Her vision is now very limited—she can only see things up close, and everything else is blurry. At night, she relies on others for help, often asking for an arm to guide her.
In 2018, at the age of 60, she completed the Buller half-marathon. Caroline walked the 21-kilometre course alone, without a guide, finishing in just over five hours. She recalls celebrating with friends that night and staying up until midnight, proud to have achieved something she hadn’t thought possible.
Caroline’s vision may have changed her daily life, but her determination and adaptability shine through. She has found creative ways to stay connected and achieve her goals, from writing a book about her beloved farm animals to fundraising for a tandem bike to share with others.
Reflecting on her journey, Caroline shares her simple yet powerful philosophy: “I thought it’s better to get help early,” she says, “rather than wait until I’m completely blind. Blind Low Vision NZ has been a great support.”
If you feel you or someone you know could benefit from Blind Low Vision NZ’s services, please call us on 0800 24 33 33 or use the Make an Enquiry form on our Contact Us page.
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