Debbie McDonald's vision problems began in 1991 when she was 28 years old. By the time her vision stabilized in 2001, diabetic retinopathy had taken all sight in her left eye and most of her usable vision in the right. She remembers, "When I became visually impaired, I was just at a standstill. I did not know what to do. I received some papers from vocational rehab and noticed that Hadley was on there."
"There are a lot of good tips in the daily living skills workshop on cleaning and finding directions. It's just so helpful," she explains. Since the Hadley platform launched, she has completed more than 175 workshops on topics including home repair, cooking, gardening, dining out, self-care, and technology.
Debbie always finds something new and interesting on the Hadley website. Being able to customize the font size and settings allows her to make the most of her remaining sight, and her page is personalized with information about her Hadley Discussion Groups, another highlight. "I like the discussion groups because you learn from other people on the call. You learn how they’re dealing with and doing things differently." As someone who enjoys gardening, crafting, and cooking, these topics are among her favorites, and she also participates regularly in the Resource Roundtable and Tech It Out. When she misses a group meeting or wants to go back to find information, she listens to the recordings. Debbie also appreciates "Hadley's professional and helpful staff. They are always available to assist with any questions."
Debbie not only applies Hadley learning in her own life, but she also shares useful information and promotes Hadley to others with visual impairment. "It's just a really great resource. I recommend Hadley to anyone that has low vision or blindness." This includes the members of the low vision support group that she has been running for 15 years to assist others near her hometown of Albany, GA.
"I've been blessed so much. I just want to give back," she shares. To help those facing similar struggles Debbie became a certified peer supporter. In addition to starting the low vision support group, she founded Limb Support, Inc, a non-profit to assist fellow amputees, and she volunteers with a Mended Heart Chapter to help others with cardiac issues.
In addition to completing the workshops, Debbie takes the extra step to rate the content and provide thoughtful feedback. This input is extremely valuable because it helps the Hadley team understand what is working well and where there are opportunities for improvement. For her exceptional commitment to learning, sharing her insights, and promoting Hadley to others, Debbie was named a Hadley HERO. She is extremely excited by this award. "It is an honor to me to be recognized by Hadley. I've looked up to you all. You helped me through my blindness. It's just an honor and very touching that I was named a HERO."