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“This is a coming out for me,” says Natanya Sortland. She smiles and points to her white cane. “I’m a woman with a new accessory.” Natanya had persevered through a brain injury but didn’t know where to turn when she began to lose her vision. Then she found VisionCorps.
Taylor, an occupational therapist, helped her with everything from organizing her refrigerator to taking medications. She also helped Natanya process the shock over how her world had changed, assuring her that she wasn’t alone and had a new life ahead. Taylor encouraged her to receive orientation and mobility training through VisionCorps as well which introduced her to the white cane.
“So many people with vision loss are giving up. They need hope.”
The white cane gives Natanya autonomy, but using it takes courage. “People see me differently. The first time I used it was really hard. But I felt free— exhilarated,” she says. “VisionCorps has a solution for every problem someone with vision loss might have. They’ll come to your house and teach you the tools you need to be independent. They give you hope.”
Natanya’s courage and sense of humor also sustain her. “The bright side is I can’t see everyone staring down at their phones, or watch people age, and I don’t know if I’m wearing a bad outfit!” she laughs.
VisionCorps has been offering a range of free services to Pennsylvanians with vision loss for 92 years and now has a West Chester office. “We help people meet their goals to live full and independent lives,” says Amy Giangiulio, VisionCorps Marketing and Communication Strategist. “Please spread the word about VisionCorps,” Natanya says. “So many people with vision loss are giving up. They need hope.”
If you would like to connect with VisionCorps about their services, visit visioncorpschestercounty.net or call 610.738.3008.
