Dear Mr. Kolberg,

In 1991 my left eye was removed after battling for two years to save it. Like so many who have gone through this ordeal, my greatest obstacle was a lack of information and support.  Looking back now all of my fears and doubts seemed overwhelming,  but each one eventually proved to be groundless.  I’ve gone on to live a very active life despite continued problems with my socket, including a difficult abscess and the extrusion of my implant.

These days I can’t even remember what it was like to have binocular vision and find few disadvantages in seeing the world through a single eye. Through trial and error I discovered ways to overcome the lack of depth perception and diminished field of view. All of these adaptations are now second nature.

Naturally I was self-conscience about my disfigurement and social adaptation was more difficult than the physical adjustment.  Again, in retrospect, I don’t think I gave people enough credit for their ability to readily accept my “disability”.  I found that my attitude was crucial and that by being comfortable with having only one eye I made it easier for others to be comfortable with it.  I discovered humor was a useful tool.

If anyone who reads this believes they could benefit from my experiences, I’d welcome the opportunity to talk to them.  Otherwise, this a great forum and something I wished I’d had when faced with my ordeal.

Sincerely,

Tom Allen

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