01-11-2010
Dear Readers,
I have now been home for almost three months and continue to see some improvements. A few weeks after returning home I went to a football game where I was able to see the time clock with my monocular. I was not able to see it before and we always sit in the same seats. Within a month of coming home, we had snow in the mountains. I was shocked at how beautiful the mountains were. I kept asking my husband why he thought they looked so different. It took us a while to figure it out.
One change that is very significant to me is my eyes are constricting normally now. They were always a little dilated. That meant I couldn’t go from sunlight to dark and see anything for several minutes. Now I can do that easily. It may seem small to many, but I have been in more than one difficult situation as a result and I view it as a significant improvement in my quality of life.
I seem to find things faster and recognize people a bit easier. A month after being home I noticed I was standing up straight while chopping apples. Two weeks ago I pulled out a manual that I read with two magnifying glasses before leaving for China. Now I can easily read it with one.
Over the past two weeks, I have experienced quite a bit of eye strain and head-aches. I am not certain why. Perhaps it is even a good thing. At different points since returning home, I have felt confused when I have looked at something. Things would sometimes look jumbled and it would take a bit to sort it out. My mom suggested that maybe my brain was just adjusting to getting so much more information than it used to. I think that is what it is. It doesn’t happen that much anymore though.
All in all, it has been a positive experience. I am glad I went. To those considering or preparing to go, I would encourage you to not rush into the decision and go when it really feels right. Also, we all go with hope but go with the knowledge that no matter what happens, you will be glad you went so you know if it would help. You will know it is time to go and try when taking the risk feels better than wondering forever what if…
I am happy to answer any questions if anybody wants to contact me. I wish the best to any who are preparing to go. No matter what it will be an experience of a lifetime.
