by Lori Kitchel
As aging occurs, certain areas of the human body begin to deteriorate, which simply comes from changes over time. Vision is just one of the many areas that can be affected in this matter, although it doesn’t always pertain to age.
There are individuals who are actually born with 20/20 vision and never need glasses, contacts or any device available for assistance for the majority of their lives. Nevertheless, there are also individuals who need assistance with their eyesight and have to wear glasses from early in their childhood.
As some people have vision that is corrected over time, others have vision that isn’t as cooperative and can continue to decline.
There is a group that was formed by two women in Winamac who decided they wanted to help others with vision problems. Two years ago, Johanna Gudas and Maurine Wilder formed VIP, an acronym for Visually Impaired People.
The second year of VIP has been beneficial to many as individuals learn from each other and from special speakers scheduled on a monthly basis. The meetings are the second Tuesday of each month, usually at the Von Tobel Center in Winamac. There are no January or February meetings because of inclement weather.
There are no dues, fees or age limits. The group simply shares coping tips, experiences, ideas and encouragement.
They are hosting a second birthday celebration at 1 p.m. Tuesday at the brick pavilion in the Winamac Town Park. It will be a carry-in luncheon, which will include fellowship, games and prizes. Everyone is requested to bring a covered dish, but not a dessert, as a birthday cake will be provided. Drinks and table service will also be provided. Depending on the weather, the group will either be under roof or at picnic tables on the grass.
There is a variety of guest speakers who attend the monthly meetings.
“It is something we call encouragement fellowship,” said Wilder. “This group is for people with any kind of vision impairments and even vision loss. There are several couples who attend this meeting generally with only one having the problems and the other assisting in getting them involved with individuals experiencing the same issues.”
Wilder explained “we also have humorous stories that we share about things we’ve done regarding mistakes or goofs. These things are going to happen. It’s the laughing that makes the burden lighter,” she continued.
People have joined the group in Winamac from Monterey, Francesville, North Judson and Star City. They welcome anyone from any county to share their story and their struggles. “It would be great to have someone attend the birthday picnic as their first time. We’d love to have them,” said Wilder. “After all, the first step is admitting there is a problem, which is very hard to do sometimes.”
Those who are unable to attend the picnic celebration, but are interested in joining the VIPs, the next meeting will be 1 p.m. July 14 in Winamac. Feel free to call Maurine Wilder at (574) 946-3836 or Johanna Gudas at (574) 946-6126.
• Lori Kitchel can be reached at (574) 732-5130 or via e-mail at lori.kitchel@pharostribune.com.
