We join Clarence at Vision Loss Resources where he shares his story about working with guide dogs after losing the central vision in both of his eyes later in life.

Clarence passed away from a long battle with cancer after this interview. We’d like to dedicate this episode to his wife, Nancy, as well as all of his family and friends. Clarence had a passion for community involvement that allowed him to touch the lives of so many people from all walks of life. He will be deeply missed.

Music: Eric Matyas - soundimage.org/sci-fi/ & Bensound - www.bensound.com/royalty-free-music/acoustic-folk/

Photography: Natalie Champa Jennings - www.nataliechampajennings.com/

Additional Resources:

Guide Dogs for the Blind - welcome.guidedogs.com/

Vision Loss Resources - visionlossresources.org

More info & view slideshow at http://www.afaceproject.com/podcasts/ep04-clarence/

NOTES:

• [4:20] Talks about his eyesight and difficulties
• [6:50] Talks about his failure and his successes
• [7:20] Speaks about guide dogs for first time and the process to get one
• [9:15] Says that less than 1% of the blind choose to use a guide dog
• [9:40] Talks about the safety that guides dogs allow you to feel
• [10:15] Talks about his own guide dogs for first time
• [11:00] Talks about how each dog has their own personalities, specifically his dog, Telly
• [12:00] Speaks about his cancer for the first time
• [14:00] Says that he owes it all to his parents and how their memories carry him through tough times