From Depression to Hope: Mr. R’s Story

Comradery – In one word that is how Mr. R describes why Seabury’s Senior Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired has been so important to him. Mr. R has attended the Center for several years and explains that blindness, along with being debilitating, can result in serious depression. The Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired allows him to connect with other visually impaired individuals and build important relationships that keep his spirits up.

Born and raised in Georgia, Mr. R enlisted in the military at the age of 20. During his years of service he learned how to repair military vehicles and traveled the world. After completing his tour of duty, Mr. Turner received a bachelor’s degree in education and history. Promptly after graduating school, he started his 28 year career with the U.S. Postal Service. It was during the last five years of his career with the Postal Service that his vision began deteriorating until he was no longer able to work. Losing his vision and his career was devastating for Mr. Turner.

The Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired has supported him emotionally during tough days, as well as helped him cope with the physical challenges of blindness and aging related changes by providing services, such as health education, and life skills training, such as braille. It is individuals like Mr. R and the many clients of the Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, along with Seabury’s caring staff, that make Seabury’s family strong.

There are so many people like Mr. R in the greater Washington metro area–and they need your help. Seabury’s programs include medical transportation, meals, case management, senior living communities, supportive housing for formerly homeless older adults, social activities, and family caregiver support. We need your help to continue providing affordable housing, meals, medical transportation, age-in-place services, care management, and other essential services.

Can you help a senior like Mr. R? Click here and donate now.

Share Mr. R’s story with your friends and family–click here!