006 Personal Perspectives on Vision Loss with Brian Deer

Philosophy professor Brian Deer joins host Matthew Reeves to discuss his journey from engineering to academia while navigating progressive vision loss from Stargardt disease. Brian shares his experience visiting nearly 100 doctors before receiving a diagnosis, the challenges of giving up driving at 24, and the practical adaptations that enabled his career transition. From learning to attend lectures without taking notes to managing the complexities of grading papers in an AI-influenced world, Brian offers candid insights about problem-solving, self-advocacy, and moving forward one obstacle at a time. This conversation explores both the frustrations and possibilities that come with vision loss, emphasizing that major life changes and professional growth remain achievable with different strategies and tools.

Topics covered: Stargardt disease diagnosis, medical gaslighting, transportation challenges, assistive technology, career transitions, academic accommodations, self-advocacy, family communication, and practical advice for facing overwhelming challenges.

ABOUT THE PODCAST

inSight Out is your podcast home for living well with vision loss. Host Matthew Reeves (LPC CRC NCC) is a legally-blind psychotherapist and rehabilitation counselor specializing in helping people thrive while living with disability. Matthew is licensed in Georgia and is a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor.

Please be sure to subscribe to catch every episode. And remember to share the show with others in the blind and low-vision community!

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