PHIL TEMPLET was born completely blind, regained vision in one eye shortly after birth, and then later lost all vision when he turned 40. Despite being completely blind, Phil has been a successful hospital administrator, appointed by the Governor to sit on various committees, and lived a life full of adventure. From skydiving to snow skiing and turkey hunting to officiating weddings , Phil is pretty much up for any challenge that comes his way.

In this conversation Phil shares his insights and experiences that has helped him create a life of fulfillment even in the face of extreme adversity.

Phil is one of my dearest friends and has been a true guiding force in my life.

Join us in this inspiring conversation with Blind Adventurer, Phil Templet.

 

Show Notes:

:15 Intro

3:42 Overview of Affiliated Blind of Louisiana

4:31 Assistive technology for the blind

6:41 Born with congenital glaucoma

9:10 Gains vision in right eye

10:21 What Phil actually sees

10:48 “I was going to go blind”

12:15 First spike in loss of vision

12:35 First cornea transplant

13:22 Thought process of preparing for blindness

14:10 Light and recorded memory in the brain

15:42 Eyes surgically removed

16:21 Fun with removable eyes

19:40 Why the need for prosthesis

25:25 “There’s nothing to be sorry for”

26:30 Everyone else accepts his blindness

28:06 Difference between hope and finale

28:41 At peace with blindness

30:12 Not being held back

32:58 “…going blind was not that big a deal…”

34:23 Guiding belief: I am alive

34:42 Being grateful for life

36:26 Trying to give back

37:40 Not allowing one event to define you

38:24 Trying out new things

38:47 Running, skydiving, turkey hunting, hiking in the Himalayas, skiing

40:01 Gratitude from tragedy

45:40 Future adventures

48:41 Half marathon training

50:20 Advice for those experiencing vision loss