Unblinded, Kevin’s story

This is my true story, and battle to regain my eyesight after suddenly losing it to a rare genetic disorder.

As we know, life is very serendipitous, and you never know who you’ll meet or what you’ll encounter. I was walking my guide dog, Elias, on Easter morning in 2016 in Murray Hill when I met a neighbor, Joel, walking his dogs. Our paths have crossed many times for years. This time was different—Elias was now on a regular leash and not a harness. Of course Joel was curious to find out how this was possible. I told him that I was miraculously getting my eyesight back. This was how I met Traci Medford Rosow, Joel’s wife, who would co-write my story, Unblinded.

I started to lose my sight in 1997 when I couldn’t read the newspaper one morning. I thought I probably didn’t get enough sleep, but as the day went on, I could see less and less—as if the lights were being dimmed. I couldn’t understand what was going on. I started to drink. By the evening, I couldn’t even distinguish colors anymore. The only thing that dulled my pain and fright was alcohol. 

At the age of 36, I found out that I had a rare genetic disorder known as Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. I was told that it was incurable.

Multiple doctors told me that I would never see again. Therefore, my only option was to learn how to live as a blind man in a sighted world. I learned to use a cane for mobility; transitioned to working with a seeing eye dog; and learned to use computer software called a screen reader. I still hated being blind, but I made peace with it. However, I just couldn’t accept the fact that I’d never see again. I decided to be proactive and try what ever I could to help myself. I got sober; learned to meditate, and began doing affirmations.

In August of 2013, one evening out of the blue—I saw a reflection of light on my medicine cabinet mirror. Slowly, ever so slowly, I saw more shadows. I was elated. 

In September 2013, after learning of a British study that showed promising nerve regeneration results from a plant based diet rich in antioxidant foods, I began a strict regimen. My entire nutritional focus changed dramatically. Four times a day, I took a teaspoon of turmeric in a lemon yogurt. Additionally, I ingested cayenne pepper in a glass of warm water. Both herbs sped up my healing. At the same time, my spiritual practice of meditation and positive affirmation went into overdrive. I repeatedly affirmed that I would again see with clarity. I would once again photograph skyscrapers. 

Within 4 months time I went from seeing mere shadows to shapes. I don’t want to give any more away as I’d really like you all to read my journey in Unblinded.  It is a hopeful, uplifting book that is right for the current turbulent time we live in.  

Kevin Coughlin
March 23, 2021

P. S. By the way, this is how I met Kevin—noticing he was walking his guide dog on a leash one day, instead of a harness. We’ve become friends—I’m happy to say.

Also, Kevin is an excellent speaker. I invited him to The Players to talk to “The Dutch Treat Group.” He was very compelling. By the way, his book Unblinded is wonderful.

Sandy Driesen