William Leos, Jr., a dedicated US Navy veteran, first sought assistance at the Southwestern Blind Rehabilitation Center at the VA in 2017, marking a significant step in his journey to adapt to a challenging circumstance.
Leos is facing a progressive eye disease known as retinitis pigmentosa, which has gradually impaired his vision, particularly affecting his ability to see in low light and losing peripheral sight since his initial diagnosis in 1989.
“My field of vision is real narrow at this stage in my life,” he reflected, noting the emotional toll it takes. “It’s hard to accept it, but I have to learn to see in a different way, which has become a necessary part of my daily life.”
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William Leos, Jr.
Thanks to the comprehensive program at the center, Leos is learning vital skills to navigate life with his vision loss effectively.
“I’m a 100% cane user, and that’s the greatest thing I’ve learned here,” he mentioned with relief. “Their mobility training is quite good. That keeps me going with independence, helping me walk around confidently.”
This year, the program proudly celebrated its 30th anniversary, showcasing its lasting impact on veterans’ lives. Program chief Diana Kellermeyer has been passionately dedicated to this mission for the last 17 years.
“So, we’ll see people who have limited vision to people who are totally blind,” Kellermeyer explained, emphasizing the individual needs of each participant. “Someone who needs to come to the blind rehab center is someone who has multiple areas that they need training in to regain some independence.”
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Diana Kellermeyer
The center focuses on five essential core areas, assisting veterans in enhancing their mobility, living skills, and overall quality of life.
Veteran John Stacey, who lost sight in his left eye while serving in the Navy in the late 1950s, has since struggled with macular degeneration affecting his right eye.
“I can’t read my phone or my computer,” he lamented, highlighting the frustrations faced by many in similar situations.
He has been traveling from the Phoenix area to the center for the past two years, eager to improve his life.
“They teach you how to maneuver things in your life and stay happy,” Stacey said, praising the program for its positive impact on his everyday living.
They also teach you manual skills; Stacey recently took pride in making a charming table runner for his daughter, showcasing the benefits of hands-on training.
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John Stacey
There are currently only 13 rehabilitation centers like the Southwestern Blind Rehabilitation Center within the VA system, making this facility a vital resource for veterans from diverse backgrounds seeking assistance.
“This one happens to get the most referrals,” Kellermeyer acknowledged, underlining the center’s reputation and crucial role in the community.
Leos observed that every patient at the center harbors different aspirations as they confront their respective diagnoses.
“But we are all here for the same thing, to try and be more independent,” he concluded, emphasizing the shared journey toward autonomy and hope.
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Heidi Alagha is an anchor and reporter for KGUN 9. Heidi spent 5 years as the morning anchor in Waco where she was named the best anchor team by the Texas Associated Press. Share your story ideas and important issues with Heidi by emailing [email protected] or by connecting on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
**Interview with US Navy Veteran William Leos, Jr. on His Journey with Vision Loss**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, William. Can you start by telling us about your experience with vision loss and how you came to seek assistance at the Southwestern Blind Rehabilitation Center?
**William Leos, Jr.:** Thank you for having me. My journey began in 1989 when I was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa. Over the years, my vision has deteriorated significantly, and I found myself struggling with low light situations and peripheral sight loss. In 2017, I realized I needed help adapting to these challenges, which led me to the Southwestern Blind Rehabilitation Center.
**Editor:** That must have been a difficult decision. What has been your experience at the center?
**William Leos, Jr.:** It’s been incredibly transformative. I learned essential skills for navigating my daily life. One of the most significant milestones for me has been becoming a full-time cane user. It has given me a sense of independence I thought I had lost. The mobility training here is exceptional, and it really helps me move around confidently.
**Editor:** That’s wonderful to hear. Diana Kellermeyer, the program chief, highlighted the importance of addressing individual needs in the rehabilitation process. How has that personalization affected your training?
**William Leos, Jr.:** It’s made a huge difference. The staff here understands that vision loss affects everyone differently. They tailor the programs to each participant’s needs, whether someone is partially sighted or completely blind. This personalized approach has been instrumental in helping me regain my sense of independence and has eased the emotional burden that comes with vision loss.
**Editor:** You’ve been part of this program during its 30th anniversary. What does that milestone mean to you and other veterans like yourself?
**William Leos, Jr.:** It speaks to the lasting impact the center has had on so many lives. For veterans like me, this program is not just about skills; it’s about community and support. Knowing that there’s a place dedicated to helping us navigate these challenges gives hope and shows that we’re not alone in this journey.
**Editor:** Thank you for sharing your inspiring story, William. Your journey showcases resilience in the face of adversity, and we wish you continued success in your rehabilitation process.
**William Leos, Jr.:** Thank you! It’s important for veterans to know there’s help out there, and it’s okay to ask for it.
