Where Are They Now? Jeremy Poincenot Update
1. When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to work in the golf industry. I always loved the game, and wanted a career involved with the game of golf.
2. Growing up, what was most challenging about having a vision disorder?
I suddenly lost my sight when I was 19 years old and a sophomore in college. Losing the ability to drive after already having enjoyed the sense of independence that driving provides for 3 years, was most challenging. There were also many awkward moments having to explain to people that I couldn't see certain things, since my vision impairment affects my optic nerves not my eyes so I don't “look blind”.
3. What unique challenges did you have to overcome with your impaired vision that most sighted people might not think about?
Most sighted people wouldn't think about how challenging it is having to plan ahead and think through how I can get things done or how I'll get somewhere. Uber and Lyft were not yet available when I lost my sight so if I wanted to go somewhere or do something I had to ask someone ahead of time to see if they could help and/or if they would be willing to. All tasks got a little harder - texting isn’t as easy, when in a hotel and identifying which bottle is shampoo and which is conditioner, crossing the street on your own - all of these are tasks that we consider easy sighted, but are more difficult with a visual impairment.
4. How was your school experience different from classmates who had full sight?
When I had full sight my freshman year of college, I would sit towards the back of the class and get A’s and B’s. After I lost my sight, I had to sit towards the front of the class to truly focus on what the professors were saying. I told each professor I was legally blind so that they wouldn’t use phrases like, “As you can see here” or “This (pointing) will be on the exam.” Classes were more difficult and required more attention and focus to do well.
5. What college did you graduate from? What is your current profession?
I graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in Business Management and a French minor. I am now a professional Inspirational Speaker and Performance Coach.
6. Do you think science will find a cure in our lifetime?
Yes, I think science will find a cure in our lifetime. There have been a lot more developments in the past few years, than when I first lost my sight almost 12 years ago. I am hopeful that with adequate funding, researchers will be able to find a cure for genetic blindness so others don’t have to go through the devastation and depression I went through when I lost my sight.
7. Where do you see yourself in 20 years?
In 20 years, I see myself with my amazing wife, Ellen, and a couple of wonderful kids (our first is due in November!). I see myself continuing to provide inspirational presentations. I see myself having strong ties in the North County San Diego community, and making a positive impact.
8. What advice would you give to a child who has a genetic vision disorder?
Realize that you are special in a really good way. You will inspire so many people that you won’t even realize because of just being you. Smile, be kind, and the world will give it right back to you.
9. What is the most important thing that sighted people should know about people who have a visual impairment?
We are human beings - fundamentally the same as everyone else - we just do some things a little bit differently.
Discover the inspiring story of Jeremy Poincenot, Vision Hero and Ambassador for The Vision of Children Foundation.