Seeing is Believing

By Rhonda Knott

“What kind of disability insurance do you have?” That was one of the scariest questions I have ever been asked. I was 36, a full-time registered nurse, divorced mother of two and I was experiencing severe visual problems. My doctor thought I might have to quit my job and go on disability – I said to him, “We cannot have this conversation, we just can’t.”

My vision problems started in 1994. I was originally diagnosed with a corneal abrasion in my right eye. Months went by and I continued to have problems. I was in so much pain that my eyelid would close and I could not make it open, especially in bright lights. I was very scared by what was happening to me. (more…)

A Hug and a Kiss

By Deyra Rodriguez    (leer en español)

When I was nine years old, I developed Type 1 diabetes.  I dealt with the condition all my life and began experiencing kidney problems when I was in my 20s.  After becoming pregnant in 1995, my kidneys failed.

Doctors tried to treat my condition with diet and medication but as a young professional trying to pursue a PhD and balance my family life, I began to suffer.  I always felt tired and my lack of energy became a way of life – I started to think that it was my new “normal.” (more…)