Spotlight on: Diana Vargas ✨ @dianavargas____
“I’m Diana, I live in Portland and have had VS since March 2020. I remember noticing what appeared to be a TV static-like filter. When it persisted, I reached out to my primary care doctor who ordered an MRI to rule out multiple sclerosis, it came back clean. I was referred to an optometrist who knew exactly what I was experiencing– Visual Snow Syndrome. I have since had my eyes looked at by a variety of ophthalmologists. I finally saw an optometrist that helped people with visual issues caused by strokes and other brain issues. She was well-versed on VSS. I turned to naturopathic medicine and acupuncture. I made dramatic changes to my diet. I’m grateful to the VSI for raising awareness and sharing research. Today, I have a better handle on my condition. FL-41 glasses help with my light sensitivity. Drinking tea, listening to music, going on walks, and finding enjoyable distractions are great. The VS Relief Overlay app helps with screen time, especially if you’re a student! Old movies also help camouflage the “tv static” and having a sense of humor along the way softens the blow. There are days where I mourn my clear vision, but I’m working on accepting it and embracing it as part of my new reality. Easier said than done, I know! My husband has been a huge support. VS is not well understood, not by doctors or other people. I’m grateful to have had medical providers early on that could give it a name, but many others don’t have this luxury. My hope is that awareness is raised in the medical community and VS patients are heard, taken seriously, and treated with respect. To those with VS – hang in there. VSS can be isolating, hard to explain to loved ones, a medical mystery, and dismissed by many. You are not alone – there are many of us experiencing the same thing, hoping for a cure. Continue to advocate for yourselves, reach out for support when you need it, and educate others.”
