I was diagnosed in adulthood with an inherited retinal disease called cone rod dystrophy, which led to my sight loss. It was like driving through fog, with my path forward uncertain and unclear. In January 2019, my world shifted again when I was suddenly struck with an unrelenting headache that to this day persists. This condition, known as New Daily Persistent Headache (NDPH), left me unable to work and confined me to darkness, battling debilitating pain and depression.

But in that darkness, I found a new light. Although I thought I had lost my identity when I lost the ability to work, I discovered that my identity had actually grown stronger. My path, though different from what I had imagined, became clearer than ever. My purpose came into view.

During this time of isolation, I saw how the struggles of the visually impaired community and those living with chronic illnesses were magnified by the pandemic. I also witnessed the challenges faced by many businesses. I knew I wanted to make a difference, to focus on seeing and finding beauty in everything, and to create meaningful connections. This vision is grounded in the belief that diversity should be celebrated and that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves empowerment through access to opportunities and experiences.

This led me to transform my Instagram page into a space that’s accessible to all. I began providing descriptive image, video, and audio descriptions, and included alt text to ensure that everyone could engage with my content. Sharing my journey has not only helped others but has also improved my own emotional well-being and resilience.

Much of my time is spent in darkness, managing my pain and sensitivity to light. But even in those moments, creativity still flows within me. When I feel well enough, I seize the opportunity to grab my phone and tripod, find the light, and capture the world as I see it. Sometimes, one of my kids lends a hand, turning these moments into cherished memories. My commitment to accessibility and empowerment through diverse storytelling drives me to keep creating and sharing, no matter the challenges.