Loss of independence should never be an acceptable option for people faced with a loss of sight. Robynne Morse from Banora Point is a shining example of someone who was able to regain her independence through assistive technology.

69 year old Robynne is legally blind due to the ‘dry’ form of Macular Degeneration. She was diagnosed in 2004 but noticed the progression of her sight loss in January 2007. Robynne has no central vision, which means she is no longer able to read, drive or notice fine detail without assistance.

“It was at the optometrist approximately five years ago that I first became aware of my MD. It eventually got to a point where I couldn’t distinguish peoples’ features.” Robynne said.

Robynne was a keen athlete in her day and nearly competed in swimming for Australia at the 1956 Olympics. She is still determined to swim again as she is not the kind of person to let life’s misfortunes get her down. Another example of Robynne’s determination is her approach to maintaining independence through the use of a variety of low vision living aids.

“I have a large button telephone, glare glasses, talking clocks and a daisy player, as well as my ClearView+ desktop magnifier. I also have a Compact+ (portable magnifier), which I can take out shopping with me and to restaurants.” said Robynne.

Robynne still has her peripheral vision which she uses on her ClearView+ to enable her to read and write again.

“I have been reading since I was two and a half and have several thousand books. I now use the ClearView+ for reading and writing every day. This machine has made the world of difference. I can still feel part of the world.” said Robynne.

(Robynne's story was printed in the Tweed Daily News, June 2008)

Media Contact: Graeme Hickey Tel: 02 8844 9802