I would have no objection if they moved me to a different and/or smaller window office at some point. I also have no objection to sharing my office as needed. I’m willing to be very reasonable.
Most people know I have some eye problems - just not the degree of severity. My emails in a 14 point font are kind of a dead giveaway! I am really struggling with night vision - just gone. I no longer drive at night and have difficulty walking outside after dark - I literally have to hang onto my husband if we are walking from car to restaurant, etc. A few weeks ago - I walked into a parked car! Our gray car - in our driveway - parked in the shade. I simply did not see it. At least I bounce pretty well. I have difficulty with depth perception and trip over curbs and steps unless I am very careful.
In the office setting - the main issue is eyestrain and fatigue. Looking out the window helps, as does closing my door and turning off the light and taking a visual break for s few minutes. I will often do this if I have a lengthy phone call.
I value my job - not ready to retire quite yet. The fact that it is an easy 10 minute drive on local roads with a large parking lot - I have trouble with parking garages - priceless. And I only work from 9-4 - no driving home after dark. In return - I am loyal and devoted - and they know it.
So - doctor did the letter and HR confirmed I have my accommodation. No blowback so far.
“HR confirmed I have my accommodation.”
Good going!
Would it be correct to assume that you would choose a more obvious color the next time you buy a car?
Like the color of the car pictured here: http://www.chevrolet.com/culture/article/bolt-ev-concept-car.html
Yes! That and pay attention to where I am walkimg. My vision issues leave no room for driving or walking while distracted.
A quick update. Had a very lengthy annual retina specialist appt yesterday - not great. My diagnosis is degenerative high myopia - meaning I am at a high risk for all kinds of visual complications - including blindness. I knew I had serious issues - but this is the first time having a name for it. My mother is partially blind at 80, so it is hereditary/genetic. Makes me even more glad that I disclosed the disability and requested accommodations at work since I don’t know what the future holds.
I am very grateful that I have not passed this on to my sons. They are both slightly near sighted, but nothing close to what I have.
Nothing I can really do except eat healthy, live as healthy as possible, and just try to enjoy life and not worry about it too much.
You’re brave and you tackled this well. Kudos. And a hug.
Thank you. This conversation has made me realize I have nothing to be ashamed about and I am going to be more forthcoming about the situation. Not because I need or want sympathy, because I don’t, but because I realize I avoid some social situations due to my vision issues - not being able to drive at night for example - and it might be better to explain that than simply declining the invitation.
[lquote] It’s an easy 15 minute drive on local roads from my home.
[/quote]
Here’s an accommodation I wish you’d make, rockvillemom: Stop driving at night. If you can’t see parked cars, how are you going to see me riding my bike (legally, with lights, of course)? How are you going to see that jogger? The kid coming home from piano lessons?
I think the OP said she does not drive at night. Only 9-4.
Emily Litella voice: Never mind. (about asking rockvillemom not to drive at night when she already doesn’t.)
Sorry, rockvillemom.
No worries. I do not drive at night or on highways. I work from 9-4. I know my limitations.