The other day, we travelled to Moorfields Eye Hospital in London to try to save the tiny bit of eyesight my sister has left. We were hoping beyond hope. 
When you get off the Tube at Old Street, there’s a green line painted on the ground that leads you all the way to Moorfields. It’s a simple but brilliant idea for people with limited vision – a clear marker guiding you from the station to the hospital.
I do appreciate that for those who are totally blind and travelling alone, it might not fully work. But for people with limited vision, it’s incredibly helpful.
Following that green line reminded me of the blue line in the Berlin Marathon I ran – except this time there was no finish line to sprint towards.
Instead, we were anxious about where this line would bring us:
- to doctors
- to decisions
- to the unknown road ahead for my sister
We’ll be returning in the New Year, possibly for surgery.
If she goes ahead, the recovery will be long – 18 months to 2 years. The specialist treatment she needs isn’t available in Ireland, so her journey continues under the care of Moorfields. The financial road ahead is going to be very expensive.
The emotional strain over the past few months – and really the past few years – has been immense. Mostly for my sister, but also for me watching her go through it.
Losing eyesight can feel like a constant state of grief. Living with sight loss can be isolating and frightening.
The staff at Moorfields were absolutely wonderful, kind, and efficient. Their warmth made a very heavy day feel a little lighter.
And of course… my mandatory everyday run still had to be done. Even in London, I was out the door at 6am – routine keeps me grounded, especially on tough days. 
Please keep my sister in your thoughts as she faces the long road ahead. 
Aniridia Network 