WE’LL LET PEOPLE SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES.

Bigger print isn’t always the answer. Sometimes a digital document that can be enlarged, adjusted or read aloud works better. Asking someone what they need makes more difference than guessing.

Ricky, visually impaired Something I wish you knew 8 October 2026

When someone has both sight and hearing difficulties, a noisy place can make following a conversation much harder. A little patience and clearer communication can make them feel included.

roseanne, VI Something I wish you knew 8 October 2026

I’m blind from birth and the assumption that still exhausts me is that I must live in darkness or sadness. I don’t. I live in texture, sound, smell, and the ridiculous amount of detail my cane and my ears pick up that most people walk past. Sight is one sense. I have five that work overtime.

Anonymous, blind since birth Something I wish you knew 3 October 2026

I wish strangers understood that my guide dog is working, not available for pats, selfies, or “oh she’s so cute can I say hello?” conversations while we’re trying to cross a busy road. She’s my eyes. When you distract her, you distract me. And yes, she is adorable. She also has a job.

Mark, guide dog user Something I wish you knew 3 October 2026

One thing I’d like a stranger to understand: when I ask “which way is the exit?” I’m not testing you. I’m not being dramatic. I genuinely cannot see the signs you’re pointing at. A quick “straight ahead, then left after the coffee shop” is pure gold. Hand-waving and “over there” is useless.

Emily, blind since childhood Something I wish you knew 3 October 2026