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Life transitions require deep resilience, especially when navigating them on your own.

In this episode Blind Vet: Now what? Hosts Ashley Boyer MA, CVRT and Rebecca Foley, MS, CVRT, COMS sit down with Air Force Veteran and former Augusta Blind Rehab Instructor Rich Skuse to discuss his personal experiences with retirement, living alone, and completing an inpatient Blind Rehab program.

Rich opens up about the realities of stepping away from the workforce and adjusting to a solo routine while managing vision loss. He shares the challenges and triumphs of his time in inpatient rehabilitation, the skills he gained to maintain his autonomy, and the profound experience of returning home to live independently.

Rich’s candid story offers powerful insights and inspiration for anyone adapting to vision changes or learning to thrive on their own terms.

The target audience: Veterans who have low vision/legal blindness/no remaining vision and their support systems.

The impact of vision loss is felt by the individual and their support system. It is a big life change and can feel quite overwhelming at times. Our goal is to provide education and support as they navigate this new way of life.

The information discussed in the podcast is helpful for anyone wanting to learn more about Blind Rehab within VHA.

#NowWhat #augustaVAhealthcaresystem #BRC

Part 2 of Emergency Planning for Natural Disasters:

Join hosts Ashley Boyer MA, CVRT and Lindsay Turner, OTR, CLVT in this episode of Blind Vet Now What they discuss essential disaster preparedness strategies, focusing on food safety, medical equipment needs, fire safety, and cold weather preparedness. They emphasize the importance of hygiene, having backup plans for medical needs, and being aware of potential hazards like landslides and sinkholes. The conversation provides practical tips for ensuring safety and well-being during various emergency situations.

Takeaways

• Hygiene is crucial during disasters, especially handwashing.
• Always have clean water for washing hands and cooking.
• Food safety is paramount; "when in doubt, throw it out."
• Backup medical equipment is essential for those with health conditions.
• Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are vital for fire safety.
• Know two ways out of every room in case of fire.
• Prepare for cold weather with extra blankets and layers.
• Be aware of potential hazards like landslides and sinkholes.
• Mark assistive devices clearly to avoid being separated from them during evacuations.
• Stay informed and prepared for various types of emergencies.

Who Should listen?

-Veterans with low vision, legal blindness and their support systems

-Anyone interested in learning more about Blind Rehab within the Veteran's Health Administration (VHA)

Get Involved!

Like, subscribe, and rate this episode to stay updated on new releases and show your support!

#NowWhat#AugustaVAHealthcareSystem #BRC #hurricaneseason #beprepared

#blindness #lowvision #Veterans #supportsystems #planforyourpets

keywords: disaster preparedness, food safety, medical equipment, fire safety, cold weather, emergency tips

Be Prepared: Emergency Planning for Natural Disasters: Join hosts Ashley Boyer MA, CVRT and Rebecca Foley, MS, CVRT, COMS on "Blind Vet: Now What?" as they discuss the importance of emergency preparedness for hurricane season. Imagine being without water, food, electricity, transportation, and phone access after a disaster - what would you do? Learn how to create a natural disaster plan and kit to sustain you and your loved ones for at least 3-7 days.

Key Takeaways

-Understand the importance of having a disaster plan in place before it strikes

-Learn how to build an emergency kit with essentials like water, food and first aid supplies

-Discover strategies for navigating disaster s with low vision and blindness

Who Should listen?

-Veterans with low vision, legal blindness and their support systems

-Anyone interested in learning more about Blind Rehab within the Veteran's Health Administration (VHA)

Get Involved!

Like, subscribe, and rate this episode to stay updated on new releases and show your support!

#NowWhat#AugustaVAHealthcareSystem #BRC #hurricaneseason #beprepared

#blindness #lowvision #Veterans #supportsystems #planforyourpets