Omer's life after a visual impairment diagnosis

“I began noticing changes in my vision around 15 years ago. At first, it was subtle, I realised I wasn’t seeing the full television screen and started struggling to read. After seeking medical advice, I was diagnosed with glaucoma. That diagnosis changed everything.

“I had been working as an area supervisor for a security company, but my eyesight got so bad that I had to give up work. That was the start of a really difficult time. Losing my job was just one part of it. I could no longer do the things I loved, like cooking or reading... it all became overwhelming.

“The hardest part was facing my new reality; I had to accept that this is how it is for me now. The emotional impact of losing my sight was so difficult and I really struggled to come to terms with what was happening to me. I felt isolated, frustrated, and my mental health took a real hit. The stress also started affecting my physical health, and my blood pressure went up, I just wasn’t myself. I was under so much stress because of my vision loss, I was lost and didn’t know what to do.”

“Sight Scotland provided me with a tablet which made it much easier to connect to the internet, they helped me get grants for a talking kitchen and medical equipment, and I was able to start cooking again - something I truly love. But more than anything, what helped me the most was feeling that Sight Scotland genuinely cares about how I’m managing and how they can help. That emotional support is so important.”

Caroline Hedley, a Rehabilitation and Mobility Officer at Sight Scotland who has worked closely with Omer, says:

“Omer’s journey reflects what many people with visual impairment go through. It’s about more than just mobility or equipment; it’s about helping someone rebuild confidence, find purpose, and reconnect with the things that make life meaningful. We’ve worked together to find practical solutions, but the emotional reassurance - knowing you’re not alone - can make all the difference.”