Julie Becker: You Are Stronger Than You Think!

Last February, Julie Becker of New Providence found herself on a terrifying roller-coaster ride of emotions as she struggled to deal with the rapid onset of diabetes and optic neuropathy. But thanks to your generosity to VisionCorps, and the loving support of her community, she is discovering her resilience.

“I never used to pay attention to what I ate,” Julie said. “But when my doctor told me I had diabetes, and explained what would happen if I didn’t get it under control, everything changed. I quit soda cold turkey, and really worked on managing my diet. I never used to exercise. But today, the gym is my happy place. I’m amazed at how much better I feel. I’m healthy and I’m strong!”

Changes in Julie’s vision created other challenges. Blurriness, limited peripheral vision and reduced depth perception meant she needed to find new ways to do things. VisionCorps Occupational Therapist Stacie Doan introduced her to ZoomText computer software that magnifies text and can convert it to audio. She now has a larger monitor and a bright yellow keyboard with legible keys. And she’s learned to use the iPhone’s accessibility features.

Julie works remotely as an accounts payable coordinator for Oxford Global Resources. “They’ve been so supportive,” Julie said. “They held my job for me for 10 months, and then got me all the tools I needed. Being able to work again, part-time, has been a big positive step for me.”

It was hard for Julie to have to give up driving. Her family provides transportation when they can, and a good friend gives her rides to and from the gym. “I really miss being able to jump in the car and go,” she said. “I love to travel to visit friends and go on adventures in other states.”

The changes in her life have been tough, but Julie has a new perspective. “I’ve never been good at asking people for help, but I’ve learned that there are people who want to help me,” she said. “And it’s made me feel even closer to them.”