03/15/2023
Anyone know what CVI is? Our son, Titus, has Cerebral (or Cortical) Visual Impairment. When he had cancer his optic nerve got smashed. Imagine an old fashioned camera where the lens is fine, but the film is warped. For our son, the way his brain interprets what his eyes see is different. He has little field of vision, and may see high contrast, large, or familiar items. Some have described their vision like looking through a kaleidoscope, others say it’s like looking through a paper tube or straw, being able to only focus on one thing at a time. His vision can go between minimal on a good day and fully blind on a bad day.
Why do I share all this? As a visual artist, vision impairment can be a difficult thing to grasp. I have joined some groups to learn more, and in one group a mama was simply looking for some party decor for her son with CVI. Its nearly impossible to find simple, high contrast party decor. I immediately asked if I could help. It was an honor to help her son celebrate his “bee day”with some simple imagery he could actually see and relate to. I’m always learning, and glad I can incorporate some of this knowledge to help others. Are you or someone you know visually impaired? I’d love to connect!!