I want to update you about the issues with my eyesight.  When I left for vacation in early December, I noticed more blurry vision in the airport with difficulty reading the overhead signs.  I attributed this to leaving very early in the morning and being tired from a full Sunday schedule.  However, it quickly became clear that my sight was worse, and I confirmed this on the cruise ship.  I made an appointment with my ophthalmologist upon returning home. After testing, he confirmed that I had begun to experience macular degeneration in my second eye.  I was given an injection immediately and will receive at least two more injections four weeks apart.  I am currently on a schedule to receive those injections every twelve weeks in the first eye.  The purpose of the injections is to greatly slow down the progression of the disease and they have been effective.

 Because of the impairment in the second eye, it is more difficult for me to read anything in a regular font and anything that is not in boldface. Some of this will improve as my eyes and brain adjust to this new reality.  At the same time, some eye function is permanently lost. I had already stopped driving at night, except for Sunday evening Mass. I am now being driven to and from that late Mass until it becomes light in the early spring.

I am also preparing myself for the inevitable likelihood that I will have to stop driving altogether, although that is not yet being considered.  Our parishes’ close proximity, as well as having a drugstore across the street and available restaurants in immediate walking distance make this a safe place for me.  I am convinced I will be able to “weather the storm” of this new development if I can remain engaged with my work presiding at Mass and being with my parishioners.

You may notice me struggling to read or losing my place in reading.  I am using an iPad, and this helps greatly.  I hope my occasional struggling will not concern you. All of this is a process of my brain and eyes adjusting to my changed vision.  You can easily notice this when I am distributing communion.  Again, all of this will help me adjust, even if I complain to you about it!  I appreciate the kind offers of prayer, support, encouragement, and transportation.  All of this assistance makes this the safest place for me, and I am grateful to have such a supportive community.