Beyond What You See

By Mary Ann Chamberlain

If you had told seven-year-old me that one day I’d be living with Type 1 diabetes, navigating vision loss, raising a daughter, moving across the country, and advocating for others, I probably wouldn’t have believed you.

For the past 37 years, Type 1 diabetes has been part of my story. It’s challenged me in ways I never expected, and over time, complications from diabetes led to significant vision loss. There were moments of fear, uncertainty, and having to redefine what independence looked like.

But here’s what I’ve learned: a diagnosis doesn’t define your future.

Vision loss has required adjustments. I’ve learned new ways to travel, work, parent, and navigate the world. Some things take more planning. Some days are harder than others. But I’ve never wanted my world to become smaller because of the obstacles in front of me.

One of my greatest motivations is my daughter. Becoming a mother reminded me that resilience isn’t about pretending life is easy—it’s about showing up anyway. I want her to see that courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s choosing to keep moving forward, even when the path looks different than you imagined.

Recently, my family made the decision to leave behind what was familiar and move from Florida to Colorado. Starting over wasn’t easy, especially while adapting to vision loss, but it reminded me that growth often begins where comfort ends.

Today, I use my experiences to advocate for others living with chronic illness and vision loss. Through storytelling, writing, and speaking, I hope to challenge assumptions and remind people that disability does not diminish ambition, purpose, or possibility.

People often see my white cane before they see me.

I hope my story encourages them to look beyond it.

Because behind every diagnosis is a person with dreams, talents, and a story still being written.

And mine is just getting started.