How Bob navigated a loss of confidence after a stroke

My Introduction to MySight York was through Helen, the Eye Care Liaison Officer, when I was referred to her by an eye clinic consultant after a stroke caused my sight loss.

My major concern was I had lost confidence because my stroke had affected my balance and the sight loss caused issues with depth perception. I was very fearful of falling and I had to concentrate so much that walking outdoors became very tiring.

Helen was able to refer me the Equipment and Information Centre and to the Living Well With Sight Loss course at MySight York for advice and support.

I then visited the Equipment and Information Centre where Deb explored ways I could let people know I had sight loss, which resulted in me being unsteady on my feet, when walking outside. She showed me lanyards, reflective arm bands and reflective tape to use on my walking stick and also let me try a pair of overshields to help with glare.

From there I grew more confident and joined several of MySight York’s activity groups, such as Tai Chi, to improve my balance, the telephone quiz and audio book group. I also became a consultant in the Community Connect Project and gave feedback on how accessible the Wonderlab at the Railway Museum was and took part in the Shared Story sessions.

I feel part of the family now at MySight York and this has led to me becoming a Volunteer Befriender. I was so blown away by the support I received, I wanted to give back and help someone else.