Social media handles:
Instagram @Realestatemuscles_
Facebook: Edwin Moran
Where are you from?
NYC
Where do you live now?
The Bronx
Tell us a little about yourself:
Born and raised in NYC as a first-generation Mexican American, my upbringing was challenging. As the eldest of five, now 31 years old, I currently lead a successful real estate team in the Bronx and lower Westchester alongside my younger brothers. From a young age, I envisioned making a positive impact in my community and offering a helping hand. While I initially dreamed of becoming a police officer, my focus shifted to aiding individuals in becoming first-time homeowners. This shift has played a significant role in my life, allowing me to contribute to helping people achieve the American dream.
What’s your eye story?
On September 3, 2021, I was looking forward to my first round of golf with a close friend at Trump Links in the Bronx. Neither of us had much golf experience, but I was curious to see what all the fuss was about. While watching golf highlights on TV, I assumed it would be simple and that I would easily become the next Tiger Woods. I quickly realized I was mistaken. Maneuvering the ball in the desired direction proved to be quite a challenge. During my friend's turn, I made the mistake of standing directly behind him, not expecting his swing to be directed at my face. The club struck the left side of my face, causing immediate pain and dropping me to my knees. My eye swelled shut, and I could not see much through the blood as I tried to open it. Fear set in, but in the midst of the uncertainty, my main concern was assuring myself that everything would be fine. I cautiously confirmed with my finger that my eye was open, but my vision had gone completely black. A trip to the hospital revealed the unsettling news that the impact had ruptured my globe. The gravity of the situation hit me even harder when I saw my mother's distress upon waking up. At that moment, I understood the need to stay strong for her.
What has been the most challenging mentally?
In the beginning, it was tough to accept that the accident really happened. It felt like I was living a bad dream. As time progressed, I realized I wasn’t doing much by keeping myself in this dark place. I made a conscious choice to step out of that darkness and focus on aspects within my control, acknowledging both what I can and cannot change. I had dreams and aspirations I look forward to achieving.
What has been the most challenging physically?
Confronting my physical appearance was difficult, especially when interacting with people who were unaware of my accident. The constant need to meet new people as a realtor made showings especially difficult, as I struggled to make eye contact without feeling insecure. This had a significant impact on my confidence. Acquiring my prosthetic eye, though initially difficult, marked a turning point. After months of not seeing an ocularist, receiving my first prosthetic renewed my hope. Yet, it took time for me to comfortably look people in the eyes once again.
Where are you now in your recovery?
It has now been 2 years and 3 months since the accident. I am in a better place now mentally and physically. Speaking with my brothers was extremely beneficial. They constantly reminded me of how amazing a person I am. Anyone who judges me for my disability is a person that I didn’t need in my life anyway. I believe that God doesn't place challenges in our path that we cannot handle. I've been managing exceptionally well, embracing my new life. I look forward to what this new journey brings within this supportive community.
What advice would you give to someone going through their eye impairment journey?
I would tell going through this tough time is, never to lose sight of your journey ahead. Life is precious and there’s a reason why each of us is put on this earth.
Who is your eye surgeon and ocularist?
Dr. Ridley-Lane and Dr. Cohen. Ocularist: Mager & Gougelman
How did you find EYEHESIVE?
The Hashtag ONEEYE and tiktok influencers.
