“I SEE,” SAID THE BLIND MAN…

There are a few versions of this phrase:

  • …and picked up his hammer and saw.
  • and waved his wooden leg.
  • to his deaf wife.

The phrase is known as Wellerism, named after Sam Weller in Charles Dickens ’ “ The Pickwick Papers. ” A Wellerism is a sentence or saying written to poke fun at pre-established clichés and proverbs. The mind behind Wellerism is to show that they’re wrong in certain situations, and enough can be made in this paradoxical tone. https://gnurtpro.com/i-see-said-the-blind-man-1646203357

Why am I sharing this phrase? The reason is that since my diagnosis of Adult Macular Degeneration (AMD), six years ago, it has become progressively worse to the point that reading, writing, and such activities are quite challenging. Large fonts (18-24)are now required. I see a retina specialist, take AREDS eye vitamins and wear sunglasses outside and even in the house if the sun is shining brightly through the windows. Otherwise, there is no preventive treatment for the dry form which is what I have.

On the right side of this photo is what my eyes could become if the AMD advances much further. I pray that it does not happen.

Lakeshore Eye Care

I share this only to explain why I have been less active with writing blogs, reading books, and leaving reviews. It has been challenging to read the blogs and emails I receive daily. However, I have learned about adaptive tools on my computer, Kindle, and iPhone to make these activities less challenging.

Just as when I received the diagnosis of cancer and had a 50% chance to live five more years, I chose to live each moment with as much love as I could AND bring awareness to women about gynecological cancers. When my eyes became dramatically worse in a two-month period of time, I chose to continue the same lifestyle of love and awareness. Being bitter and angry does not promote healing or contentment.

I pray that the AMD does not progress any further, but if it does, I pray for the strength to “adjust my sails” like a ship in a storm. It is the set of the sails, not the direction of the wind that determines which way we will go. Jim Robin (https://www.brainyquote.com/topics/sails-quotes).

My new phrase and motto are: I see, said Karen, as she picked up her book and read.

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog. Your comments are always welcome and give me joy.

17 thoughts on ““I SEE,” SAID THE BLIND MAN…

  1. I’m sorry to hear about your eyesight, Karen! I pray that your eyes won’t get to that point. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. Sending you love and hugs! ❤

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    1. .. but I am always inspired how you deal with it. I will have you in my prayers and sending you a tons of healing hugs xo

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      1. Yes life does surprise ys, I agree. My brother in law has this but they were able to stop it from progressing. I’m praying the same for you xo

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  2. Hi Karen,

    Steve Olson here.

    I just want to let you know how sorry I am to hear about your AMD condition.

    My mother was in the same situation and she received a ”shot in the eye” treatment around 60 times. My sister and I would take her in every 8-10 weeks. It worked! I believe the shots saved her eyesight from getting worse. Her insurance covered the cost of the injections. I know they just came out with a new drug shortly she passed in November 2020. It wasn’t easy, but I know she felt it was worth it. She lived to be over 100.

    Peace and Blessings,

    Steve

    >

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    1. Steve, thank you for your encouraging words. My AMD is dry so there are no shots or medications available. However, I have enrolled in a clinical trial for eye injections for the dry form. I do not yet know if I qualify. Life always has its challenges from which we can learn and grow.

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  3. You inspire me always, Karen. Whatever the challenge may be, you face it with love. Count on my prayers — for your continued good health. 💗🤗💗

    Like

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