August 13 - Blind Spots

It is always quite difficult for me to explain my low vision. I imagine that it might be the same for other people who have limited sight. It is far easier to explain full sight or no sight at all, but low vision can be different with different eye conditions. For instance, some people have poor central vision and others have no peripheral vision. My own sight seems to be all over the place and I know that I have what I would call various “blind spots”.

These blind spots are more noticeable when I am looking straight ahead. Most times I am so used to this phenomenon that I don’t really pay any attention to it. However, twice in the last few days I have come up short. The first time was in our driveway and the second time was on our local walking trail. Both times were a surprise.

The driveway incident had Lyle shaking his head with laughter. In the early morning I had put out several bags and boxes for a collection agency. Then I was back inside to shower, have breakfast and get ready for our morning walk. I was a bit rushed for time and Lyle went outside to wait in the car. As I raced out to meet him, looking ahead to the car, I crashed right into the boxes I had left there only a couple of hours previously. I had forgotten that they were there and simply didn’t see them again.

The second incident was on our usual walking trail. This is a trail that I walk along several times each week and so it is very familiar. However, on this particular day there was a crew working on the bridge underpass. My walking partner was very careful in directing my path through the roped off construction zone. It was only at the last minute that she realized that I was going to walk directly into the side mirror of one of the parked trucks. I stopped inches before smashing my face into the mirror. I simply don’t see what is right in front of me.

These blind spots are interesting when it comes to using a white cane. Obviously I wasn’t using my cane in my driveway, but the cane just isn’t helpful when it comes to detecting objects at the height of shoulder or face level. The mirror of the construction truck was a one off incident, but I have also come into contact with side mirrors when vehicles are parked too close to or even on the curb.

I also find it especially annoying when people allow branches from the trees in their yards to hang out over the sidewalks. Pedestrians with sight can merely duck their heads or walk out onto the road. I tend to walk right into the offending branch. Sidewalk obstacles can definitely create hazards for pedestrians with limited sight.

My blind spots can be frustrating and annoying, but for the most part I am grateful for the sight that I have. I am also grateful when other people make concessions for those of us who do have limited sight and who try to ensure that our pathways are clear of potential hazards.