A small but determined group of individuals meets regularly to brainstorm the complexities of vision impairment and disease. Led by clinical psychologist Dr. Luisa Bryan, the Vision Support Group shares resources and experiences with the added value of a clinical mentor.

Discussion topics are wide-ranging: glaucoma, wet and dry macular degeneration, blepharospasm, detached retinas, cataract related complications, and various other conditions and diseases of the eye.

Support groups, by nature, bring together like-minded individuals to share common experiences, network resources and hopefully come up with some out-of-the-box thinking. Vision Quest members research, share, identify physicians of excellence, and compare ways of conquering the challenges that come with a loss of independence. They are one another’s support.

There is fear related with impaired vision: anxiety at social gatherings, for instance. Suddenly the beautifully candlelit room becomes a walking hazard zone. “Is that my neighbor talking to me? I can’t quite make out the face, but the voice is familiar … and what is that on my dinner plate or on the buffet line?”

Everyday living tasks that are taken for granted by most can be a struggle for others. Here, there is the comfort of sharing ideas and thoughts to compensate or even overcome daily challenges.

The Vision Support Group meets Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. from January through April in the Medical Center conference room. If you are experiencing impaired vision and would like to attend the meetings, please contact Dr. Luisa Bryan at 305-367-4965 or via email.