At age 3, I developed Type-1 diabetes – being kept alive since by the discovery of insulin. By age 10, I knew I wanted to become an engineer, and by 13, an electrical engineer. As an adult, I’ve been fortunate enough to give back to science by putting science instruments onboard the Hubble Space Telescope and the International Space Station. But I’m equally proud of bringing insulin pumps to thousands of my fellow diabetics – greatly increasing the quality of their lives.

Vision loss began in the 1980’s, following extensive laser treatments to both retinas for diabetic retinopathy.

I began sculpting in the mid-1990’s, and will always be indebted to the Ann Arbor Art Association and their adult classes. At the time, PBS was airing “Sister Wendy’s Grand Tour” and another series just on the Renaissance. Also inspiring was the gigantic Ann Arbor Art Fair, taking over downtown every year.

I have what is called “low-vision”, a very inadequate term for multiple impairments affecting each eye. One issue is loss of visual field. This does not create irregular black splotches. Instead, surrounding background simply fills in. This makes edges, even entire objects, simply disappear – only to reappear by moving my eyes.

Vision loss has been very gradual, giving time to adjust and adapt. Science might one day offer stem cell treatments, but until then, life goes on. It’s what you do with what you’ve got.