Social media handles:
IG emanne319
Where are you from?
Michigan
Where do you live now?
Michigan will always be home!
Tell us a little about yourself:
Hi! My name is Emilie, I am a momma to one awesome little boy. I am a massage therapist, yogi, CBD enthusiast, and baker! I have been through some tough experiences and have learned to enjoy every moment that we are given. This life, even during the hard times, is something I am truly grateful for.
What’s your eye story?
Well to really explain my story, I need to go back a little further. In 2012, I was a pedestrian hit by a drunk driver. While this accident was not how I lost my eye, it still is an important part of my story. This accident caused a devastating head injury and tore 3 of the 4 ligaments in one of my knees. I spent the next few years in therapy recovering. 21 months after this accident, I was in another accident. A driver ran a red light, and when my airbag deployed a metal washer shot into my eye. I was taken to the local hospital only to be airlifted to another for emergency surgery. They were unable to get the washer out of my eye. We waited a few days to see if my vision would return, but unfortunately, it didn’t and 8 days later I had my enucleation.
What has been the most challenging mentally?
I already felt mentally shattered from my first accident so when I lost my eye it just felt like another blow. If I'm being honest, I hated how I looked with one eye. I didn't feel like myself anymore. Accepting this reality and rebuilding myself has been the most challenging thing I’ve had to face.
What has been the most challenging physically?
Depth perception! I drop things a lot or I run into things that are on my prosthetic side.
Where are you now in your recovery?
Physically, I am fully recovered. Mentally, my anxiety has worsened since losing my eye. I have a significant fear of losing my sight completely or being hurt in another accident.
What advice would you give to someone going through their eye impairment journey?
Give yourself some grace! It takes time to adjust, but a one-eyed life is just as beautiful as a two-eyed life. Also, keep safety glasses in the kitchen for cooking. I always keep a pair in most rooms of my house. Safety first!
How did you find EYEHESIVE?
I was browsing IG for support and came across this community!
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