The Overcomer
My losses and gains.33 total reviews
Comment from Melissa Russell Deur
That's a tough story, Sally. I liked your set up at the beginning: can't see the blackboard, but too tall to sit up close. I was particularly struck by the specialist crying as he delivered the diagnosis. I think it's amazing that you are able to write. Do you use a special computer screen?
reply by the author on 17-Jun-2020
That's a tough story, Sally. I liked your set up at the beginning: can't see the blackboard, but too tall to sit up close. I was particularly struck by the specialist crying as he delivered the diagnosis. I think it's amazing that you are able to write. Do you use a special computer screen?
Comment Written 16-Jun-2020
reply by the author on 17-Jun-2020
-
Good afternoon, Melissa. Thank you for the excellent review and kind comments. It is so appreciated.
Yes, I have a blind assist keyboard, magnifying tool, and use voice-over text. There are a few of my fan friends that know my condition and are quick to give me critiques and helpful improvements. My husband is my proofreader. I write four to six hours a day and store it for future postings. I am working two books right now, both posting on FanStory. One is a collection of short stories: Letters From Heaven's Gateway. I have seven so far in the series. And my second novella, Double Blind. I'm also a poetress. How about you? I look forward to seeing more of you. :)
Sending you my best today as always,
Sally xo
-
Wow! You write four to six hours a day, making the most of technology to help you overcome dimmed sight. What an inspiration! Sometimes I haven't gotten around to writing because I had a hangnail! This time of quarantine has been a great time for me. I've conquered some clutter that has bogged me down for years and now feel more focused and eager to write. I joined FanStory last month and have really enjoyed the opportunity to post my work and receive the great support of reviewers.
-
Welcome to FanStory, Melissa. I thought you might be new. I hope to catch up with you soon.
Sal :)
Comment from royowen
Good on you Sally. It would not only be an earth shattering thing to find out, but also unfixable by normal means, so I prayed to the only one who can, the Lord. Sometimes as cruel as it is, it's a marvellous Testimony of how one can overcome, in the power of God's name. Well done, blessings, Roy
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
Good on you Sally. It would not only be an earth shattering thing to find out, but also unfixable by normal means, so I prayed to the only one who can, the Lord. Sometimes as cruel as it is, it's a marvellous Testimony of how one can overcome, in the power of God's name. Well done, blessings, Roy
Comment Written 16-Jun-2020
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
-
Thank you so much for the excellent review and kind comments, dear Roy. I'm glad you enjoyed my testimony and her story. Sending you my best today as always, Sally xo
-
Well done
Comment from fm wright
Such a wonderfully inspirational story. I have a church sister.She is retired from the marines. Besides her lung problems she also has seizures and thus an assistance dog. I also just found out that even if they replace the lens in each of her eyes, she too will go blind. You and her are such great role models in that you rise above your circumstances. Bless you for sharing.
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
Such a wonderfully inspirational story. I have a church sister.She is retired from the marines. Besides her lung problems she also has seizures and thus an assistance dog. I also just found out that even if they replace the lens in each of her eyes, she too will go blind. You and her are such great role models in that you rise above your circumstances. Bless you for sharing.
Comment Written 16-Jun-2020
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
-
Thank you so much for the wonderful review and kind comments. Thank you so much for telling me about your friend and please give her a big hug for me and thank her for her service. Feel free to pass on any of my articles to her. Also let her know I have today put her in my prayers. I come from my marine family has my stepfather was a Marine Corps major. Again I am so honored by this wonderful review and generous stars. Thank you again! Sending my best today as always, Sally XOs.........................
Comment from Jannypan (Jan)
I have heard of the retina problem and knew it was genetic. I am sorry for this devastating disease to be with you, Sally. I am thankful that you have your family and friends. Your story is well written. May I ask if other family members have this disease or any in your past generations? Take care. Best wishes.
Respectfully, Jan
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
I have heard of the retina problem and knew it was genetic. I am sorry for this devastating disease to be with you, Sally. I am thankful that you have your family and friends. Your story is well written. May I ask if other family members have this disease or any in your past generations? Take care. Best wishes.
Respectfully, Jan
Comment Written 16-Jun-2020
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
-
Thank you so much for the excellent review and kind comments dear Jan. I have a recessive gene and it means that it is passed from generations however, it has a tendency to skip a generation and mutate. Typically, retinitis pigmentosa strikes in youth. I was 54 before I noticed my symptoms recalled on that day in the car. I am now 65. My mother's youngest sister was totally blind by age nineteen. My grandmother eventually ended up being her caregiver and teacher. She learn braille and how do use of a guide dog. I only met her once but my mother loved her very much. She did not live a full life and passed away in her mid-30s. She and my grandmother share a grave and joint tombstone, buried in Pennsylvania. My two remaining siblings have been tested and show no signs of it. My sons and grandsons (6 total) have all had their eyes thoroughly examined and no one has shown any signs of it at this time. I have good friends though that have entire families with it and are devastated. Many of them I know through my local chapter of Foundation Fighting Blindness here in Florida. My husband and I are actively involved with this group and they do good work. Still, the clinical trials focus mainly on the young. I am hopeful for anything this group can provide for these young ones struggling with this disease. So many live a life I cannot hardly comprehend. These are some of the bravest people I've ever met. Most of them live productive lives and have loving relationships. A strong family unit is a huge asset. I know you know this from the military there is strength in numbers! Thank you again so much for stopping by and for your sweet spirit. Sending my best day as always, Sally XOs........
-
Thank you, Sally, for your detailed an personal reply. My prayers are with you and your family.
(((HUGS)))
Comment from WalkerMan
Thank you for telling all your friends here the full story of your declining eyesight, so we can better understand all you have been through and how well you have managed despite it. I think I can speak for all your fans in saying that we are glad you are here and progressing so well in your new writing career. I certainly am pleased to have been able to help you as a reviewer of your exciting novellas and beautiful love stories.
God knows your heart full of love, so has blessed you with Jackson and the rest of your loving family in the picture, and also has blessed you with the writing skills you are honing here to show others the benefits of such a loving heart, rather than let you become a sad invalid. Yes, Sally, you ARE an overcomer; and we all love you and cheer you on.
reply by the author on 16-Jun-2020
Thank you for telling all your friends here the full story of your declining eyesight, so we can better understand all you have been through and how well you have managed despite it. I think I can speak for all your fans in saying that we are glad you are here and progressing so well in your new writing career. I certainly am pleased to have been able to help you as a reviewer of your exciting novellas and beautiful love stories.
God knows your heart full of love, so has blessed you with Jackson and the rest of your loving family in the picture, and also has blessed you with the writing skills you are honing here to show others the benefits of such a loving heart, rather than let you become a sad invalid. Yes, Sally, you ARE an overcomer; and we all love you and cheer you on.
Comment Written 16-Jun-2020
reply by the author on 16-Jun-2020
-
Thank you, my friend. Your awesome review cheered me on even more. I am overwhelmed with goodness! Everyone has been so incredibly generous, kind and understanding. You probably know my story better than most. I'm glad I shared it today.
It's nice to have you in my corner, Mike.
Sending you my best today as always,
Sally :))
-
You are most welcome, Sal. Your story must be inspiring for others fighting such an obstacle, as you are proving that overcoming it is possible. Your living example is a joy to all of us. -- Mike
Comment from barbara.wilkey
You are truly a blessed person and a blessing to all of us. I am proud to be your friend. Thank you for sharing this contest entry with us. It is a very strong story. I wish you the best of luck.
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
You are truly a blessed person and a blessing to all of us. I am proud to be your friend. Thank you for sharing this contest entry with us. It is a very strong story. I wish you the best of luck.
Comment Written 16-Jun-2020
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
-
Ah, thank you, dear Barb. I am blessed to have a strong fan story family around me as well. It has made all the difference being here among people that are so kind and understanding. Thank you for your sweet gestures and many kindnesses. :))
Sending you my best today as always,
Sally xoxoxo!!!
Comment from Dolly'sPoems
This is a heartfelt write Sally and such a sad situation you found yourself in. I have struggled with eyesight problems but not as bad as yours. I am able to drive wearing glasses, but I only have one good eye and the optician always reminds me to look after it! It is marvellous that you are able to write and I expect you touch type like I do. I enjoyed your story here, love Dolly x
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
This is a heartfelt write Sally and such a sad situation you found yourself in. I have struggled with eyesight problems but not as bad as yours. I am able to drive wearing glasses, but I only have one good eye and the optician always reminds me to look after it! It is marvellous that you are able to write and I expect you touch type like I do. I enjoyed your story here, love Dolly x
Comment Written 16-Jun-2020
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
-
Thank you very much for the wonderful review and 630 right now. I will put you on my prayer list for your I miss Dolly. My sister has something like this she wears a contact and when I only. Again, thank you for the wonderful review and for stopping by today for my true story. You're so sweet. :))
Sending my best today as always, Sally xoxoxo
Comment from Liz O'Neill
This account has a nice positive spirit to it. I like the display of your ability to laugh: "I called it the "End Zone" Your example of allusion drives home the seriousness of legal blindness. I hope I I'm using the correct term. If not, I appologize. This is a challenge for readers to end any "pity-parties" they might have had, be having or will have in the future. Thank you for your testimony to courage.
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
This account has a nice positive spirit to it. I like the display of your ability to laugh: "I called it the "End Zone" Your example of allusion drives home the seriousness of legal blindness. I hope I I'm using the correct term. If not, I appologize. This is a challenge for readers to end any "pity-parties" they might have had, be having or will have in the future. Thank you for your testimony to courage.
Comment Written 16-Jun-2020
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
-
Thank you so much for the excellent review and kind comments, dear Liz. I'm so glad you could stop by for my true story. Yes I am legally blind. I've been on a blindness disability now for about three years. I hesitated going through the government process, but I ended up doing it because I was not able to function in my job. I appreciate your personal comments and support of my work. That really means the world to me.
Sending you my best today as always,
Sally xoxo
Comment from lyenochka
Bless you for sharing your great testimony of overcoming such a devastating diagnosis and rising so far above any of the sight limitations! You are just amazing and thanking God for you!
"The optomologist was agast." (ophthalmologist was aghast)
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
Bless you for sharing your great testimony of overcoming such a devastating diagnosis and rising so far above any of the sight limitations! You are just amazing and thanking God for you!
"The optomologist was agast." (ophthalmologist was aghast)
Comment Written 16-Jun-2020
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
-
Once I had these misspelled fixed, others said it was misspelled. It see, I'm not alone. LOL!
I'm so glad I have you. Thank you for your support in everything I write and for your kimd critiques. I really appreciate you.
Sal xoxo
Comment from Joan E.
I relish your motto as an "overcomer" and thank you for encouraging us to adopt it. The story of your slow-developing disability is remarkable. I am so glad you have the support of a loving family and you have found a special creative nitch in writing. Congratulations on your publications and your sharing work on FanStory. Here's to more "gains"! -Joan
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
I relish your motto as an "overcomer" and thank you for encouraging us to adopt it. The story of your slow-developing disability is remarkable. I am so glad you have the support of a loving family and you have found a special creative nitch in writing. Congratulations on your publications and your sharing work on FanStory. Here's to more "gains"! -Joan
Comment Written 16-Jun-2020
reply by the author on 18-Jun-2020
-
Thank you so much, dear Joan. I am honored. How kind and generous you are, and bearing six stars! I am blessed by your many kindnesses time and again.
Sending you my best today as always,
Sally xoxoxo