Learning and Building a Future With Vision Loss

By Sean Eugene Morgan

My name is Sean Eugene Morgan. I live in Gold Beach, Oregon, with my wife, Amy, and I have retinitis pigmentosa. I am legally blind. As I adapt to progressive vision loss, I am also working toward a computer science degree and a future in software engineering. Learning, finding the right support, and building a stable life with my wife are important parts of that effort.

Technology has been part of my life since I was young. From about age 16 to 19, I worked in computer repair. I enjoyed solving technical problems and learning how things worked. Returning to that field gives me a way to reconnect with an interest I had long before this chapter of my life began.

There is still a great deal of work ahead. I have completed several college-level courses and am continuing my studies. I am also learning how to use technology in ways that work with my vision limitations. Earning a degree is a goal I am working toward, not something I have already accomplished. I want to develop the skills to do useful work and support a stable future.

Living with retinitis pigmentosa brings uncertainty about what I will be able to see in the future and how I will support myself. That uncertainty can be frightening. Planning for education and work means thinking about vision loss as well as the subjects I want to study. I am still learning how to adapt, and I do not have every answer yet.

My wife and my faith are important sources of support as I rebuild my life. I want to be dependable, keep my commitments, and make good use of the opportunities ahead of me. Progress means continuing to study and being willing to learn from other people, including people who understand vision loss through their own experience.

That is one reason I reached out to the Foundation Fighting Blindness. I want to become more connected with the blind and low-vision community in Oregon. I am interested in peer support, local events, and opportunities to contribute. I appreciate being pointed toward the Oregon chapter and resources that may help me continue toward a career in technology.

I am sharing my story while I am still working through it. I have a degree to earn and changes in my vision to adapt to. My hope is to build a useful life and eventually encourage others who are also finding their way. For now, I am continuing my education, learning what support is available, and working toward the future I want for my family.