Carolyn's story

Carolyn, from Devon, has had Nystagmus from birth. She first contacted us over a year ago.

"My eye condition means that I have to really study things as I can’t recognise things the way other people do. I’m unable to drive as I can’t focus and if I’m out with my husband I wouldn’t be the first person to walk into a room as it would be difficult for me to find my way.

"Gradually you learn to overcome things, for example when reading a book I have to do this at an angle. It’s the only way that I can focus.

"I originally trained as a florist and ran a family business but due to an illness in the family we had to close up. After this I worked in other places but they were not always supportive. I knew I needed equipment to enable me to do my work. Luckily my optician told me about Action for Blind People and I spoke to Phil, the Exeter Action Team employment coordinator.

"During this time I became unemployed and Phil was so helpful, he worked with me to improve my CV and helped to arrange interviews for me. He even provided moral support by accompanying me. Phil introduced me to Shenagh, the assistive technology coordinator who advised me on the full range of equipment available.

"Phil also invited me to an event where Action had a stand. I attended armed with my copies of my CV and I secured an interview with a large employer in Exeter. I was offered a post and Shenagh visited my place of work to assess the situation and recommended necessary equipment.

"My employers are incredibly supportive and my team-mates are always behind me. They are the best employers I’ve ever come across. Work has opened up so many opportunities and has given me a chance to progress. In the future, I hope to work with people with disabilities and I’ve planned a fundraising event with my team-mates. We are going to raise money for Action by skydiving and I’m really looking forward to it.

"Action are worth their weight in gold. They are always there for me and always available on the phone. Action gives people the confidence to go out and get that job. Being visually impaired should not hinder my job prospects.

"I consider everyone who has helped me at Action to be a friend at the end of the phone."