Overview

I am a lifelong student of literature who is proud of having survived years of homelessness and having been able to restart my new life as a responsible citizen in society since moving into an apartment last year. I've had 20/20 vision my whole life up to Thanksgiving 2013 - but a scratch in my eye developed into blindness.

My goals are to get my 20/20 vision back and to pursue the publication of my own fiction novel. I follow-up regularly with my ophthalmologist and have connected with the Braille Institute to stay on track with my goals of finishing my novel.

To work on my fiction novel, I need a workstation with a scanner/printer machine and projector which will allow me to enlarge text and read. I also need a tape recorder to dictate my chapters which I plan to have typed up by volunteers from the Braille Institute.

With my limited income and disability, I can't go out and do many things. The library is my best friend and reading has helped me survive homelessness and deal with the pain I experience due to neuropathy. Meeting this need will help me read and write again which are two activities that make me happiest.

Validated

Validated by Aiko from PATH (What does this mean?)

I have known Bret for two years now through my work as an Outreach Navigator at PATH. I worked closely with him while he resided at our shelter where he always dreamed of having his own apartment. He was able to move into his own home last year, but lost his vision soon after. Bret has continued to remain resourceful and motivated despite his health challenges and having this need met would mean a lot to him.

About Aiko

As Associate Director of PATH San Jose, I help people experiencing homelessness access supportive services and move from streets to permanent housing. I have been working at PATH since 2012 and what I like most about my job is the opportunity to build relationships with clients, service providing… Read more