Hi, I'm Stephanie.
39 - Retinitis Pigmentosa - Louisiana
EYECE Breaker Spotlight - March 2026
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Stephanie's EYECE Breaker Story:
"A few years ago, I had a moment that still makes us laugh. I was in a gift shop with my daughter, casually browsing for a souvenir, using my hands to get a better sense of what I was looking at—size, texture, quality, all the usual things. I came across what felt like an amazing purse and reached out to grab it, ready to buy… just as my daughter started urgently whispering in my ear to stop because the lady thought I was trying to steal her purse. Turns out, the purse I thought was hanging on a rack was actually attached to another customer. I was completely mortified—but we laughed so hard, and best of all, no cops were called! I’ve learned that adapting is easier when you’re willing to laugh at yourself!!"
Beyond the Story:
What's an activity or hobby that you refuse to give up doing, despite the changes to or loss of your vision?
"Going to theme parks and riding all the rides—hands down. I’ve been making memories with my kids for the past 15 years at our favorite vacation spots, especially Disney and Universal Orlando. Navigating the crowds can be challenging, but my girls make it possible, and we’ll always be a ride-junkie family—no matter what."
What’s something that living with vision loss has taught you about yourself?
"Vision loss has taught me that I am stronger than I ever realized. Instead of limiting me, it’s pushed me to grow, adapt, and turn challenges into motivation. It showed me that my strength doesn’t come from what I see, but from how I respond and keep moving forward."
What’s a moment, related to your vision, that still makes you laugh?
"I'm completely obsessed with the moon, so I'm always scanning the sky at night. I've proudly filmed what I thought was a beautiful moon moment, only for my kiddo to tell me it was a streetlight-lesson learned: never miss a chance to laugh at yourself!!"
When speaking about your vision, what’s something people are usually surprised to learn about your day-to-day life?
"People are often surprised by how much I manage day to day with the vision I have. I cook for my family, handle all the housework and laundry, and take care of my five kitty babies. Yes, it can be challenging, but it’s incredibly empowering to show up for my life every day."
What’s one misconception about your vision that you wish people knew and/or would let go of?
"Many people think vision loss automatically means constant struggle or sadness. While there are challenges, my life is still full, joyful, and driven by purpose."
With your diagnosis in mind, what’s one “rare perspective” you’ve gained?
"Living with vision loss has taught me to slow down and notice what many people overlook like connection, presence, and small moments that don’t rely on sight. It’s given me a deeper appreciation for life beyond appearances."
A Little More From Stephanie:
"I want people to know that vision loss doesn’t mean life gets smaller, it just looks different. I choose to lead with positivity, resilience, and humor, because laughter has gotten me through some blurry and awkward moments and made the journey a lot more fun. To anyone else living with RP: you are not alone, and your diagnosis does not define your limits or your worth. I’m a proud mom, a theme-park ride junkie, a moon-lover (ok ok and a crazy cat lady lol)- and a firm believer that adaptability paired with joy can turn challenges into strength. If my story does anything, I hope it reminds you that you’re capable of more than you think. and that it’s okay to laugh along the way."
June 2026
Anthony
“I reached for a free Costco meatball…I’m not about to disrespect a free meatball...Then accidentally knocked over the backup supply. My Guide Dog thought it was the greatest day in Costco history.”
May 2026
Randall
“I was dressed for the camera and proceeded with my speech. It was 7 minutes long. I said thank you and waited for a response… only silence. Then I realized I wasn’t even in the meeting.”
April 2026
Jen
“I was cooking with a house full of kids and looking for the butter. They told me to put my hand down directly in front of me…now each time something is directly in front of me, someone yells ‘BUTTER!’”
MARCH 2026
STEPHANIE
"I was in a shop with my daughter when I grabbed what felt like an amazing purse. She urgently whispred to STOP...Turns out, it was attached to another customer! We laughed so hard."
FEBRUARY 2026
SHANA
"I entered a dim bathroom--found a fun-house of mirrors instead. Upon leaving I called for help and laughed until a kind woman led me to freedom."
July 2026
COMING SOON