News

Amesbury: Support group helps those with failing vision

By Katie Farrell
Staff writer
Published: February 15, 2008

AMESBURY — Rachel Paskowski remembers clearly the day she woke up and could no longer see out of one eye.

Two years later, Paskowski is still learning how to function with her diagnosis — "wet" macular degeneration — and the impact it has had on her life.

"It was very devastating to me at first," said Paskowski, 69. She could no longer do the one thing that she calls "her biggest enjoyment" — reading the Bible.

Paskowski isn't alone. All the members of the Amesbury Low Vision Support Group share similar stories and similar feelings.

The group, sponsored by Adaptive Technology Consulting in Salisbury, meets once a month for an hour. It was formed in August because there's a waiting list for a similar support group in Newburyport.

Group members are grateful.

Being a part of such a group is crucial, both for the education they receive and the support they get, the members say. It lets them realize they are not alone and that others are going through the same struggles and having the same experiences.

And all the members agree: The hardest part about losing their eyesight was no longer being able to drive a car.

"You're confined after that," Paskowski explained.

They attend each month to learn tips and to share solutions for common situations. They discuss their different eye conditions and what happens next as the condition progresses with facilitator Amy Halloran, a low vision consultant with Adaptive Technology.

"It's a life change, that's for sure," Paskowski said.

They also discuss everyday routines and what different scenarios might bring — from eating out in a dimly lit restaurant to putting toothpaste on a toothbrush and organizing a kitchen and household for safety.

Halloran also speaks about new medical treatments and options that might be available.

"I'm just grateful for everything that I've been taught," Mary Rita Cartier said.

A person faced with low vision will go through all the stages of mourning, Halloran said.

"I've learned a lot of key things," Henry Fournier said.

Fournier, the town's former assessor, suffers from vision problems and a detached retina as a result of diabetes. He said he attends the monthly sessions as often as possible.

"It's been very helpful; I hate missing them," Fournier said.

In between handouts that discuss ways to identify foods and how to measure ingredients and pour a beverage, the group takes some time to share stories — and to laugh.

"You have to get a sense of humor too," Paskowski said. "You have to." For example, she told of the time she thought she was pouring tea perfectly, only to realize that she had spilled it all over the table.

"We do get to laugh," Halloran said.

The group is open to adults in the Merrimack Valley who have vision loss due to a degenerative eye condition. It is free of charge and transportation is provided through the Senior Center.

The group meets on the first Thursday of each month from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Health Center. For more information or to join the group, call Amy Halloran at 978-462-3817.