UK Keratoconus Self-Help and Support Association

I do know what you mean, i get exactly the same because of how difficult things can be. I hate reading large print simply because to me i look stupid. Even though saying that is stupid on its own, im still in college so i just want to be and have the same as everyone else. Unfortunately KC doesn't really allow that. So i always have to be different than everyone else. I still have problems with my contact lenses all the time so normally i cannot put them in, then people think im being ignorant because i don't always speak to them. That's simply down to not being able to see who i am speaking to properly. Facial expressions are the worst lately because i don't always catch them. People don't really understand even though they sometimes make the effort to try. I just find myself asking the same question over and over again and telling the same story again and again and thats something else that gets to you.

Part of the problem is not having a visual indicator of reduced vision. If you had a white stick or guide dog the difficulties you describe would be less acute. This is why I wish there were also a system of badges which indicated partial/reduced vision. Yes I know such a badge does exist, but it's not as widely recognised because it's not widely used. People expect reduced vision to be indicated by a stick or dog. If we had a better badge system [and I reckon many people might prefer a badge anyhow] it would help.
We could put it on just when we need it, I would put it on when I need to remove my lens

That's exactly what the RNIB "Symbol Stick" is for. It's a white folding stick, short enough to be useless for finding your way around, but long enough to attract attention and let people know that you do indeed have a problem.

The other side of the coin of course, is that the symbol has negative connotations to the carrier!

well that's just it John, a lot of people don't like carrying a stick, whereas a bright recognisible badge would be better

John, I have seen someone locally with one of the short white sticks now I know what it's for thankyou.

I have often been accused of ignoring people when I'm out, I usually tell them I have poor vision and don't recognise people who call out from across the road or toot at me from their car because I am too busy watching where I am walking. Most people accept that and if they can't that's their problem not mine.

Lesley.

My own view is

'What is wrong with being different to others?'

This is something I have always been comfortable with. It is was gives life such variety and makes it so interesting

The problem is when they don't know which is why a bright coloured badge on the coat which was nationally recognised would be useful and less emotive than a stick, say pink for reduced vision and yellow for blind. Those of us who 'part-time partially sighted' without lenses could just put it on as and when required.
I seriously think there is a campaign here

There's nothing wrong with being different Gareth, it just gets boring having to keep explaining or people making an inaccurate assumption, it's about making life easier

well badge or no badge we need something thats for sure.
I went to coop today and told the lady i cant see well could she show me where dumpling mix is.

"3rd aisle down" said.
Lot of help she was.
The badge could have a piccie of an eye black and white and a cross through it.mmmmmm i think its gotta be gud.
It not always possible to carry a stick.And push a pram

I dont mind being different makes me special (shhhh dont spoil it, it makes me feel better )
But sick of people thinking im ignorant cus i cant see who they r