LyVette Byrd, a former Philadelphia counselor, suddenly lost her vision in 2017. As a result, she had to navigate life as a blind person, facing unique challenges. Byrd sought help from government agencies but encountered limited success. She struggled to adapt to her new circumstances, ultimately leaving her job. Attempts to obtain resources for reentering the workforce were hindered by funding constraints. Byrd also sought medical insurance and applied for Social Security disability benefits to avoid falling into depression. She receives $1,200 monthly in disability payments and food stamps, living below the poverty line. Byrd’s story sheds light on the difficulties faced by suddenly blind individuals and highlights the need for better support systems. The article is part of a storytelling initiative focused on the experiences of Philadelphia residents on their path to financial security. Read the article on Technical.ly.
