- INTRODUCTION -

Welcome back to your monthly newsletter magazine, dedicated and produced for OOKP patients. Please consider this YOUR magazine, written for you, on topics you choose and directed by your feedback. We want to fill its pages, with all the information you wish to know regarding your OOKP journey.

This is only achievable with your input and feedback. So, please contact us giving suggestions for articles and content you wish to be included. Also, please give feedback of how we can make this newsletter better.

If you like our goals, why not become a volunteer and help us research, write and produce the magazine!

If interested, email us at

ourookpservice@gmail.com

Please enter “Newsletter” in the subject line

Or visit our website below and click “CONTACT US”

www.ookpsupport.org

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- TABLE OF CONTENTS -

* Introduction

* Editors Update

* Pre-OOKP Surgery

* Managing Emotions & Doubts

* Post – OOKP Surgery

* Business Opportunity

* Support Group Mission

* Technology News

* Wellness Corner

* Community Corner – Your Stories

* Upcoming Events & Resources

* Closing Thoughts

* Contributors Praises

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EDITORS UPDATE

Hi Guys.

Welcome to issue 3 of the OOKP newsletter, VISIONARY HORIZONS.

Is it me getting old, or is time going faster? It seems like I only completed the last issue a week ago.

Well, I’m glad to say, we’re beginning to chat on the “WhatsApp” group and it fills me with joy, knowing people can post on this group and get feedback.

I hope you don’t mind me mentioning your radio interview Rachel. It’s fantastic you’re speaking out to help others. Fancy doing an interview for the newsletter or for the website? In fact, I’d like to invite everyone to try either an interview or sending in their story.

I know some of you are shy, like me, but I can conduct the interview and ask a few simple questions, like a chat, then transcribe it (remember the apps I showed you at the initial meeting) so we have a real persons experience of undergoing and living with visual impairment and what OOKP did for you. Please think about it.

We also have interest internationally. We may have a member from Canada joining us. I’m hoping to contact them very soon.

So, please keep chatting, giving feedback and suggestions for the website. We’ve progressed from having nothing but enthusiasm in the July meeting, to having a website, chat group and international status in a matter of 3 months. Lets keep up the momentum and now look to getting a committee together, a minimum of 3, so we can make this official and begin applying for funding, to help people achieve more, and hopefully, begin a grant section, where members can apply for funding to help with their daily lives. It’s possible, if we continue with the development shown in the last 3 months.

So, feedback increased from last month. It’s still a little limited, but I’m hoping, as people become familiar with using the group chat, this will develop. Remember, details for the website and how to contact me are above, and the home page of the website includes a “JOIN NOW” button, to join our very own chat group.

Hope to seem more of you using this and remember, there are less than 10 Fridays until Christmas, so lets begin thinking if we can all meet up for a bit of a Christmas get together.

So, it’s on with this months newsletter. Hope you enjoy the articles.

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PRE-OOKP SURGERY – NUTRITION FOR HEALING: FOODS TO EAT BEFORE SURGERY.

Preparing your body for OOKP surgery is just as important as preparing your mind. One powerful way to support healing is through the food you eat. Good nutrition gives your body the energy and building blocks it needs to recover more quickly after surgery.

Here are some helpful guidelines:

• Protein for Repair – Protein helps your body build and repair tissues. Include foods such as eggs, chicken, fish, beans, and lentils. For vegetarians, tofu and dairy are excellent options. Even a simple bowl of lentil soup provides valuable nourishment.

• Fruits and Vegetables for Immunity – Brightly coloured fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that protect against infection. Oranges, berries, carrots, and leafy greens are all good choices. If eating them raw is difficult, try steaming or blending them into soups.

• Healthy Fats for Strength – Foods such as olive oil, avocado, nuts, and seeds contain healthy fats that reduce inflammation and support recovery. Even adding a spoonful of olive oil to your vegetables can help.

• Hydration for Healing – Water is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most important parts of preparation. Aim to sip throughout the day. Herbal teas, such as chamomile or peppermint, are also gentle and soothing.

Think of your meals as natural medicine. Each bite is a way of strengthening your body and preparing it to heal. Before making changes, speak with your healthcare team or dietitian, but know that small, steady improvements in diet can give you a real advantage during recovery.

Your diet is important and needs careful consideration. Please do not rely on social media influencers for advice. Many of the statements made on line have little evidence to support their claims and could be counter-active to your health. Your consultant can answer any questions you have regarding healing, or can direct you to professionals who can help. You’ve made the decision to undergo surgery, therefore, take the same consideration in choosing a diet which is beneficial to your speedy recovery.

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MANAGING EMOTIONS & DOUBTS – WHEN FEAR STRIKES: HOW TO CALM YOURSELF DURING DIFFICULT SITUATIONS.

We all experience fear and it’s a natural part of preparing for surgery. Many patients describe feeling sudden moments when fear rises sharply — perhaps while waiting in hospital, lying awake at night, or even during everyday tasks. Don’t worry, these feelings are normal, generally occurring when we are unsure of the process before us, but they can be eased with simple techniques.

Here are a few calming tools anyone can try when fear strikes. Believe me, try them, they really do work:

• The Grounding Technique – Place both feet flat on the floor. Gently press your feet down and notice the contact with the ground. Say to yourself, “I’m safe. I’m supported.” This helps bring your focus back to the present moment. To enhance this technique, try this on plush carpet. Curl your toes into the carpet, while stating the phrase given and it gives a real feeling of safety and relaxation.

• Slow Breathing – Breathe in through your nose for four counts, hold for two, then breathe out through your mouth for six counts. Imagine releasing tension with each out-breath. Repeat for two to three minutes. Breathing through your nose takes more oxygen directly to the brain, allowing it to relax quicker, a common technique used in yoga, meditation, hypnosis and with first response crews.

• Safe Word or Phrase – Choose a short phrase such as “I can do this” or “Calm and steady.” Repeat it quietly or in your mind whenever fear builds. The rhythm of words can be just as comforting as breathing. This works, as amazingly, the brain can only process one thought at a time, therefore, replacing the fear with a mantra, allows your body to recover more quickly from the fear process.

• Reach Out – If possible, call or message a friend, family member, or fellow patient. Sharing the moment with someone who understands often reduces fear immediately.This reinforces the phrase, “a problem shared is a problem halved.” Use our service to help. Call and arrange a call-back while waiting for your surgery and speak to people who have been there.

Fear comes and goes, but it shouldn’t control you. By practicing these techniques regularly, you create a toolkit you can rely on whenever anxiety grows strong. Also, by accessing our website or support service, you can talk to people who’ve been through the fear you’re feeling and can offer bespoke support to help you gain the most from your surgery.

Your consultant can answer questions regarding the surgery, but we can offer answers to deal with the emotions experienced with all aspects of OOKP. Please, feel free to see what services we offer.

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POST-OOKP SURGERY- REGAINING CONFIDENCE WHEN OUTDOORS.

Many OOKP patients say, one of their biggest goals after surgery, is regaining confidence when going outside. At first, it may feel daunting — the world can seem too bright, too noisy, or unpredictable. But with patience, planning, and practice, independence outdoors can return.

Here are some steps to help rebuild your confidence:

• Start Small – Begin by walking in a familiar, safe area such as your garden, a quiet street, or with a companion. Short, frequent outings are better than pushing too far at once.

• Protect Your Eyes – Sunglasses or protective shields are essential. They not only block light and dust but also give you reassurance that your eyes are safe. Choose glasses that wrap slightly around the face for added protection.

• Use Mobility Aids with Pride – Whether it’s a long cane, support from a guide, or mobility training from a rehabilitation team, these tools are strengths, not weaknesses. They allow you to move with confidence. Remember, they are aids, not eternal chains. They are there to help you reach your goals quicker

• Rebuild Gradually – Once comfortable in quiet areas, slowly expand your routes — perhaps to a local park, a friend’s house, or a nearby café. With each step, your confidence will grow. Be determined and focused and you’ll soon be achieving tasks you never thought possible.

• Celebrate Every Success – The first walk outdoors after surgery, the first solo journey, or the first visit to a shop — each achievement deserves recognition. Remember, surgery has given you a second chance, don’t waste it. Contact our support service if you need assistance, reassurance or focus, we’re always here to help, in whatever way you need.

Remember: you don’t need to rush. Regaining independence outdoors is a journey, and every step forward is progress. With time and support, you’ll once again enjoy the freedom of open spaces. How do we know, because each and every one of us has faced this emotion.

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- BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY -

If you wish to learn a new vocation, I offer a course, teaching individuals how to become a “Blind Awareness Trainer,” where you train front-line staff, to correctly assist blind and visually impaired customers.

This is my vocation, where earnings are considerable, it provides fun and interesting social opportunities and I increase the number of people who can offer assistance to visually impaired individuals.

If you’re interested, send an email with “TRAINING” in the subject line, for more details

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- THE SUPPORT GROUP MISSION -

Our mission, is to empower people facing OOKP (“tooth‐in‐eye”) surgery and their families, by providing clear and accessible information, practical help and a caring community. We exist, to relieve the stress and isolation of this rare procedure, by advancing patients’ health and well‐being, through education and support. In practice, we aim to give everyone affected by OOKP, the knowledge, tools and emotional support they need to feel informed and confident about their care. This means offering up‑to‑date guidance on the emotions of surgery and follow‑up support, building peer networks to share experiences, involving families in the process, and partnering with eye clinics and charities, to deliver the best possible outcomes. This can only be achieved with YOUR help!

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TECHNOLOGY NEWS – BEST ACCESSIBLE SMART HOME DEVICES.

In today’s society, smart home technology is transforming daily life for many people with sight loss. Devices like washers, vacuum cleaners, TV’s etc, which respond to your voice, or work automatically, can make your home safer, more comfortable, and easier to manage.

Here are some of the most helpful smart devices available today:

• Smart Speakers (Amazon Echo, Google Home) – By simply using your voice, you can set reminders for medication, play music, check the weather, create a shopping list or even call a family member. No screens required — just say the command, or ask your question and the task is completed.

• Smart Lighting – Lights can be turned on or off with your voice or set on timers. Some systems even adjust brightness automatically at sunset, reducing the need to search for switches. Some people may ask, why smart lighting for visually impaired people? It can adjust the light to suit your needs and even if blind, can deter intruders, by activating lights, as though someone is home

• Smart Plugs  –  These let you control household appliances, such as kettles or lamps, through your phone or speaker. Imagine saying, “Alexa, turn on the kettle,” and having your tea water ready as you step from the shower.

• Smart Doorbells – Devices like Ring allow you to hear when someone is at the door and speak to them without needing to open it. For added independence, some can connect with screen readers or audio alerts.

These devices can often be set up with help from a family member or volunteer. Once in place, they reduce daily stress and bring peace of mind. By using smart technology, you can make your home work for you, giving you greater independence and comfort and today, can be purchased for just a few pounds. If you need to know more about smart technology, see our “TECH LIBRARY” section of the website, or email us, so we can forward information specific to your needs..

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WELLNESS CORNER – MINDFULNESS IN YOUR DAILY LIFE.

There’s so much hype regarding mindfulness these days, but what is it? Mindfulness is simply the practice of bringing attention to the present moment. For OOKP patients, mindfulness can be especially powerful, helping to calm anxiety, manage pain, and find peace in daily life. The best part? It requires no special equipment and can be done anywhere.

Here are simple ways to practice mindfulness every day:

• Mindful Breathing – Sit or lie comfortably. Focus only on your breath. Notice the cool air as you breathe in and the warmth as you breathe out. When your mind wanders, gently return to your breath. Even two minutes can bring calming feelings, reducing stress and eliminating anxiety. You may think it sounds too simple, but try it, you’ll be amazed with the results.

• Mindful Touch  –  Choose an everyday object, like a cup of tea or a piece of fruit. Explore it slowly with your hands. Notice the texture, the warmth, or the shape. Paying attention in this way grounds you in the present. Remember every part of the object and its location, then recall it back to yourself. Remember, the brain can only conduct one task at a time, so when you concentrate on mindful touch, you dismiss all other actions causing you concern

• Mindful Listening – Pause during your day to listen carefully to the sounds around you — birdsong, the hum of a fridge, or a neighbour talking. Instead of labelling the sounds as good or bad, simply notice them. This is the basis of “white noise,” the noise of your environment. Once you begin listening, you accept the noise, which with practice, becomes unnoticeable. Like people living near church bells, within a short period of time, they blend into the background and become almost silent to you.

• Mindful Gratitude – At the end of the day, think of one thing you’re grateful for. It might be a phone call with a friend, a tasty meal, or even a moment of rest. Focusing on gratitude strengthens positive feelings.

Practicing mindfulness doesn’t mean emptying the mind — it means noticing what’s happening in this moment, without judgment. Over time, these small practices can reduce stress and bring a sense of calm, even in difficult times and the good thing is, you can practice this whenever and wherever you wish. It requires no tools, other than the senses you have.

It sounds weird, but try it. You’ll be amazed with the effects it can have on you and once mastered, it allows you to become calm and accepting of many situations which you may currently find annoying or irritating.

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COMMUNITY CORNER: YOUR VOICE, YOUR STORIES

You “mad” people, you’ve almost insisted I continue my story. People even asked for the first section, as they missed it. For reference, the first part is in the draft newsletter, sent to review for the July meeting. However, if you need a copy, email me and I will send it you.

So, let’s continue my fairytale story (smile).

If you remember, I’d made a cup of tea, learned Braille (well, learned to clear the sheet of dots) and was listening to talking books, to help my recovery. But, I wanted more. As I said, I wanted to get back out there and cause havoc, as I have done most my life (smile) but all in the best possible taste, to coin a phrase from those who remember the talented Kenny Everett.

It was at this time, I was introduced to probably the most influential person I’ve ever met. Her name was Pat Ross (sadly no longer with us) who was the local cane trainer for Rotherham Social Services. Pat said, it was a great thrill for her, as she didn’t usually come into contact with clients, until they had been blind for a number of years. She was as excited as me, to get me learning the use of a cane and getting me mobile, Pat said, being included this early, means she doesn’t need to spend time eliminating bad habits, so really, my progress should be noticeable.

I was so happy. By working together with Pat, I could hopefully achieve my ambitions of being mobile again.

I began by learning the guide cane. It allowed me to map out my room and the equipment in it. This was amazing. I remember playing a game of guess as a child. I would be blindfolded and my sister would bring items from my grandmas home and I would have to guess what they were. Although I say it myself, I was really good at this. Was this preparing me for blindness in later life? Is this too deep? I don’t know, but I do know, Pat was really impressed with how easy I found it to recall items and their positions.

Remember, we have 5 senses. Just because we lose one, doesn’t mean we’re incompetent. It just means we must adjust, to use all our remaining senses, to obtain the same information. It’s not impossible, it just takes practice, like anything else. This is also true about locating items. If you allow yourself to develop, you’ll discover, you develop a fantastic memory. Many people dismiss this, saying they have a poor memory, but this is simply because they don’t use the skills they possess. I’ve actually wrote a self help book on developing a fantastic memory. Let me know if you wish to purchase a copy.

But I digress. Pat was absolutely fantastic. She allowed me to explore and learn. She taught me the basics, then asked what I wanted to achieve with these new skills, then encouraged me to do it.

I remember being told, there was a community TV room on the ward. I asked Pat, can I get there. She took a look where it was located, then said, it may take a few training sessions, but why not, it’s a safe environment.

I began learning on Tuesday; and by Sunday, I was in the TV room, watching my favourite sport, the F1 Grand Prix. Pat taught me to use the wall and my guide cane, to slowly follow a route, to take me to the TV room. Slowly, I don’t think so (smile), I’d learned and memorized the route within four days.

I did listen to Pat though. I remember her saying,, although I’d learned the route, there could always be obstacles, so always take time to feel for such obstacles. This is when I learned about the long cane. This is a longer and more sturdy cane which I could use to find my way in the real world. And let me tell you, I learned to master the long cane, and even with being completely blind, used my cane training and memory, to take me round town, visiting all my old haunts (OK, you have me, pubs) all without a sighted guide.

I actually learned, I had a fast walking pace. Generally, long canes are measured from the ground to the bottom of your breast bone. Mine was 130cm, but because of my pace, an extra 5cm is added, so obstacles are located before causing accidents. This was news to me, but has worked since I began cane training and touch wood, I’ve never had an accident.

So, I wanted something and worked to get it. All we need is the determination and we can achieve anything we want.

Now, I was visiting the TV room, going out for a smoke alone, taking visitors to the cafe, I felt useful again.

It was then I received a visit from my father. We’d never had a good relationship and hardly talked for the past 3 years, but here he was, sitting beside my bed, not knowing what to say, and amazed with my independence. This was strange, as he’d always belittled me during my childhood, favouring my sisters education rather than mine, but, it was not now what he wanted, it was what I wanted, for me to return to my normal life.

After a few visits from my father, I took him outside for a smoke. He was amazed. I told him, I needed to get out of the hospital ward, even if only for an afternoon. He said, if they let me out, he’d take me for a drive, to blow away the cob-webs. I think he said it, thinking I’d be unable to be let out, but it backfired. Seeing the consultant the following day, I explained the situation and how it would help my mental health, to have a trip out; and my father would be willing to do this. The consultant agreed, but insisted I wore full eye and skin protection, as it was approaching summer, which would damage my healing.

So, there I was, using my charms on the consultant now (smile) and getting a day pass into the real world. Where would I go? What would I do? Who would I meet? I don’t know if it was the devil in me, or I really wanted to get back into the normality of life, but when I told my father I could go out, when he asked where I wanted to go, I said………

SHOPPING.

Thats right, this burly biker wanted to go shopping. I knew my father would hate it, but I wanted to know if I could walk round a supermarket, for the first time, totally blind and see in my minds eye, how the supermarket looked and if I could identify some items.

It was my way of testing myself. I hear you saying, identify items? Yes. Could I find the familiar tubby jar of marmite. Could I distinguish between brown sauce and red sauce. For those wondering, brown sauce is tall and square, red sauce is tall and round (or they were before they all changed to plastic squeeszy bottles).

That day out was so important. With very little training from my social worker, but a determination to live life as I had done, I could identify items, I could easily be guided around a supermarket by holding the shopping trolley handle, while others guided the front of the basket (I even do this to this date) and I belittled my father in the process (as he hates shopping) getting my own back a little for all the years he had done it to me.

To finish the day, we visited my aunty, who was so pleased to see me recovering and getting out and about.

When I returned to the ward, I sleppt like a baby, but it convinced me, I had the ability to live how I wanted. With a little effort, training and practice, I believed there was nothing I couldn’t do, and this is still my mentallity. For example, I’ve never built such a complicated website as the one we have, but by watching You Tube videos (they’re amazing for learning) and the determination not to let you all down, I produced something I was happy with and which I hope you are proud of.

So, that’s it for this month, but if you thought my day out with my fatherwas a surprise, just wait until I tell you what I did with my mother.

Intrigued? Well, you’ll just have to wait for the next installment of my life without sight. I hope it interests you and you’re gaining confidence, by reading my story.

As mentioned, it would be great hearing other peoples stories and we can make a collection and sell the book, helping fund the support group, giving you something to be proud of, knowing your efforts are helping others.

See you all next month.

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- UPCOMING EVENTS & RESOURCES -

As we develop the support service, website, newsletter magazine and WhatsApp group, we want to produce podcasts, webinars, workshops, fundraising events and other accessible materials members can access.

If you have news to share, please let us know by email, and we’ll advertise it here, for all to access and join. The more we can inform people, the more this service will grow. Lets make it a service to be respected, one which others aim to imitate for their group.

Keep communicating with us and others, it’s the only way we learn and progress, to make life easier.

So come on all you budding bakers, crafters and sales gurus, lets get some events planned to raise money. Maybe, we can raise enough money to have a Christmas trip to London, to see a show, after we ‘ve discussed our progress.

“Sound good? Only we can make it happen”

THIS MONTHS EVENTS

Rachel from Ireland is being interviewed by local radio. Lets wish her all the best and hope she sends a copy of the interview, or a link of where we can here it

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CLOSING THOUGHTS: EMBRACE YOUR VISIONARY HORIZONS

We’re progressing, but we need to be using the services available. Many of you have social media accounts you write on at least weekly, please consider our “WhatsApp” group to be part of your social media and try posting at least once a week.

By chatting, we become friends, by becoming friends, we help each other and by helping each other, we can spread the friendship and help wide and far.

I only have a few months left for my story, which you all seem to enjoy, but I know my story, I want to learn more about you. Please, take a little time to tell me more about you, otherwise, this newsletter is simply about me, and that’s not what it is for.

If we want this to work, we all need to have an input, so please help me achieve this.

Thats enough from me, I always seem to be moaning, and this is not my style, but it’s lonely here, talking to myself (smile), I need continuous input from others to keep my motivation up. Not just a couple of words each time you receive a newsletter, but feedback, interaction, HELP and support.

Think about what this service can become and help us get there. This is YOUR service, and can become whatever you want and whatever you build. There was plenty of chat in the meeting about what people wanted and what they were missing, but when I ask for details, everything goes quiet. Come on guys, we need interaction on a weekly basis. Cone on Paul, lets have some Apple IOS help, I am an Android user.

So, until next month, I look forward to hearing you at least once a week, either by email, chat, or in person, if we can get to arrange another meeting.

Take care

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Website

www.ookpsupport.org

Phone

07483 880268

E-mail

ourookpservice@gmail.com

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CONTRIBUTORS PRAISES

A big thank you to the following, for helping to produce this monthly newsletter and assisting with the services.

Martin Jones

Rotherham, Editor

Caroline Williams

Newcastle, Communications Officer

Christina Bateman

Rachel Keon

International Recruitment Officer.