Embracing the Light Within: My Journey with 2% Vision by Seema Flower

Living with 2% vision is akin to navigating an ever-changing world painted in shadows and hazy contours. My name is Seema Flower, and Retinitis Pigmentosa has been my constant companion since childhood, shaping the way I perceive and interact with the world around me. While the darkness may often seem overwhelming, I have learned to embrace the light within, finding strength, purpose, and a passion for empowering others with disabilities.

Imagine waking up every day with a dim and blurry view of the world. The once vivid colours now appear muted, and the faces of loved ones become fleeting glimpses. As the world outside gets brighter with the sun’s rays, my vision seems to retreat further into the shadows, leaving me with limited clarity and a sense of detachment from my surroundings. Each step I take feels like a leap of faith, as my visual field resembles a tunnel, with the periphery almost entirely obscured.

However, my condition has never defined me. I have learned to adapt, to find my own unique perspective in a world predominantly experienced through sight. With the support of my family and my own unwavering determination, I have embraced challenges head-on and refused to let my vision loss dictate the trajectory of my life.

Living with 2% vision has taught me the value of resilience and resourcefulness. Everyday tasks that many take for granted, such as reading street signs, navigating through crowded spaces, or identifying familiar faces, require a heightened level of concentration and adaptability. The seemingly mundane activities can become immense feats of determination, yet each small accomplishment serves as a reminder of the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

In a world that heavily relies on visual communication, I have discovered the beauty of alternative forms of connection. My sense of touch and sound have become more acute, allowing me to appreciate the subtleties in the texture of objects and the cadence of voices. 

One of the most significant challenges of living with limited vision is the sense of isolation that can accompany it. I have faced moments of frustration and loneliness, feeling disconnected from the experiences of my sighted peers. But these moments have driven me to seek a sense of community, to connect with others who share similar struggles, and to build a support network that understands the unique perspectives of those with visual impairments.

Through my own journey, I realised that I had the power to create positive change for myself and others. This realisation led to the birth of Blind Ambition, my company dedicated to educating organisations about disabilities and promoting workplace equality. I recognised the need for disability awareness training to bridge the gap between individuals with disabilities and the corporate world. Blind Ambition became my platform to advocate for inclusion, diversity, and equal opportunities for all, regardless of their abilities.

My experiences have taught me that disabilities do not define individuals; instead, they represent the inherent strength and resilience that lie within each person. As I embraced my identity as a visually impaired individual, I discovered my passion for empowering others who have been disadvantaged by their disabilities. Blind Ambition became the manifestation of this passion, as I sought to create a more inclusive and understanding world.

Living with 2% vision has not been without its trials, but it has also illuminated my path with purpose and determination. Every obstacle I overcome serves as a reminder that I possess the strength to surmount any challenge life presents. My journey has been one of self-discovery, advocacy, and a celebration of the beauty that lies within diversity.

And it’s been a positive experience too as living with 2% vision has shaped my life in ways I could never have imagined. The challenges and triumphs have given me a unique perspective on the world and a profound appreciation for the strengths that reside within all individuals, regardless of their abilities. 

Through my journey, I have come to embrace the light within myself, and it is this light that fuels my passion for empowering others to embrace their own brilliance and contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society.