👁️👁️ August Recap: A Journey of Reflection and Resilience 👁️👁️
Taking Time to Reflect and Share My Story
Since leaving Insightly after the M&A, I’ve had the opportunity to step back and truly reflect on my life—where I’ve been, where I am now, and where I want to go. This time of reflection has inspired me to share a deeply personal story, one that has shaped much of who I am today. My journey with keratoconus is more than just a medical narrative; it’s a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the importance of living life to the fullest, no matter what challenges we face.
Overcoming the Challenges of Keratoconus
Imagine waking up one day and realizing that the world around you has become a blur. The sharp edges of everyday life soften, distances become difficult to gauge, and even the simplest tasks demand intense focus. This is what it feels like to live with keratoconus—a condition that, for many, can feel like a constant battle to see the world clearly.
For me, keratoconus has been more than just a medical diagnosis; it has shaped my career, challenged my passions, and ultimately pushed me to see the world in a way that most people never will. This is the story of how a condition that could have held me back became the very thing that propelled me forward.
Understanding Keratoconus
Before we get into my story, its important to know what Keratoconus, keh-ruh-toh-KOH-nus is,. First, there is no cure. If you have Keratoconus, it isn’t going away.
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that affects the structure of the cornea, causing it to thin and assume a more conical shape. This irregular shape leads to distorted vision, increased sensitivity to light, and a decrease in visual acuity. For those who experience it, the world becomes a blur, with objects appearing warped and out of focus. There are different severities of the condition - ranging from mild to extreme. I was diagnosed and have predominately been on the extreme end of the diagnosis.
A Brief History of Keratoconus
While keratoconus has been recognized for centuries, our understanding of the condition has significantly evolved over time. The earliest descriptions date back to the 18th century, but it wasn't until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that keratoconus began to be systematically studied. Advances in ophthalmology have since led to better diagnostic tools and more effective treatments. Today, keratoconus is diagnosed using sophisticated imaging technologies like corneal topography, which provide detailed maps of the cornea's surface.
Recent Advancements and Treatments
In recent years, there have been significant advancements in the management and treatment of keratoconus. Innovations such as Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) have emerged as effective methods to halt the progression of the disease by strengthening the corneal tissue. Additionally, advancements in contact lens technology, including the development of Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses and scleral lenses, have greatly improved vision correction options for those affected.
For more detailed information on the history and advancements in keratoconus treatment, you can visit American Academy of Ophthalmology or Keratoconus.org.
My Diagnosis and Early Struggles
I was diagnosed with keratoconus early in my childhood. I’d say elementary school, maybe junior high. As my condition progressed, I reached a point where glasses were no longer a viable option. The lenses had become too thick to be practical, leaving me with increasingly blurry vision.
It wasn’t until I started using Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses that I experienced a significant improvement. These lenses made a world of difference, allowing me to see more clearly again. However, RGP lenses come with their own set of challenges. They are difficult to fit, have a limited wearing time, and are highly sensitive to external elements like dust and debris—things that wouldn’t normally bother someone without keratoconus. Despite these challenges, I adapted and learned to navigate a world that required constant vigilance and care to protect my vision.
For 13 years, I worked at In-N-Out Burger, a job that required precision and attention to detail, especially in the kitchen. As my keratoconus progressed, the heat and constant visual demands of the kitchen took a toll on my vision. I began to struggle with tasks that once came easily to me, and the realization that my condition was impacting my performance was both disheartening and motivating. Ultimately, I made the difficult decision to leave a company I loved, knowing that I needed to prioritize my health and vision.
Facing the Reality: Multiple Surgeries and Recovery
Leaving my job marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life, one defined by a series of medical procedures aimed at stabilizing my condition. Over the years, I underwent multiple eye surgeries—each one bringing its own set of challenges and hopes for improvement.
One of the most difficult periods was when I had to go on disability for a year to recover from surgery. It was a time of uncertainty and introspection. Would I be able to regain my vision? Would I be able to return to a normal life? These questions loomed large, but I was determined not to let keratoconus define me.
Finding a New Perspective: Photography and Embracing the Challenge
Rather than letting my condition hold me back, I chose to embrace the challenges it presented. With foggy vision and less-than-ideal depth perception, I found a new passion in photography. Through the lens of my camera, I began to explore the world in a way that was uniquely my own.
Photography became more than just a hobby; it was a way for me to express how I see the world—a world that may be blurry and distorted, but one that is still full of beauty and wonder. My work reflects the imperfections of my vision, and through it, I hope to show others that even with a disability, you can find a way to create and share your unique perspective.
On a side note, many often ask what brand I like to shoot on. I choose Sony for a few but one obvious reason. Sony cameras — in my opinion — have some of the best auto focus in the industry. I can’t manual focus so having a trusty and ultra accurate auto focus is critical. Additionally, Sony cameras preform very well in low-ligh conditions. Since I love shooting astro photography, this added benefit was a no brainer.
The Road to Independence: Regaining My Driver’s License and Embracing Van Life
After years of living with the limitations imposed by keratoconus, I decided to take a major step toward regaining my independence: getting my driver’s license back. Following another successful surgery, I was finally able to meet the vision requirements necessary to drive safely. This milestone was more than just a practical achievement—it symbolized my determination to live life on my terms, despite the obstacles that keratoconus had placed in my path.
With my license in hand, I knew I was ready to embark on a new journey. I decided to embrace van life, a decision that brought me closer to nature and allowed me to experience a sense of freedom that I had longed for. Owning a van has given me the opportunity to explore the great outdoors, connect with nature, and find healing in the vast landscapes that I now had the ability to reach.
Van life is a testament to the fact that with perseverance and the right mindset, you can overcome the limitations imposed by keratoconus and live a fulfilling life. It has shown me that even in the face of challenges, there is always a path forward—one that leads to new adventures and a renewed sense of purpose.
Bringing Awareness and Inspiring Others
My story is one of resilience, but it’s also a call to action. I fully recognize that I am not alone in facing challenges—whether they are related to health, personal struggles, or any of the countless obstacles life can throw our way. Every one of us, at some point, will confront difficulties that test our strength and determination.
By sharing my journey with keratoconus, I hope to achieve a few key things, but the most important is to inspire. If my story can encourage even one person who is struggling with their own illness or challenges to step outside, to push forward, and to live their life to the fullest, then I’ve accomplished something truly meaningful.
This is also a reminder that life is short, and no matter what obstacles we face, it’s crucial to seize the moments we have, to get out and live our lives. We can’t let our difficulties define us—we must be the ones to define how we live, despite them.
Collaborate with Me
I’m passionate about using my experience to collaborate with brands and organizations that share my vision—literally and figuratively. Whether through photography projects, advocacy, or product partnerships, I’m eager to connect with those who are interested in working together to make a difference.
If you’re interested in partnering with me, learning more about keratoconus, or simply sharing your own story, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can help bring more awareness to this condition and inspire others to see the world through a different lens.
