I had to bow out of IT work after 17 years when I couldn't wake up and know if I'd be able to focus enough to read anything in the morning. There has been a sense of loss that comes with every visual issue. It sucks. Meditation has helped me a bit to stay focused on what really matters. Good luck!

> build a wood-fire kiln in the back yard and get back into pottery and sculpture

A positive note to end your rant on. I liked that.

So... There's a lot of similarities between us. I'm 31 with background in software development and have recently gotten into electronics and microcontrollers.

Congenital cataracts run in my family; my uncorrected vision is 20/400, but I'm able to get 20/35 with contacts. I'm currently dealing with a possible glaucoma diagnosis (retinal thinning and high pressure), and I see the specialist in a couple weeks.

Like you, many of my hobbies require decent vision. I can't solder electronics if I can't see. I can't ride my motorcycle if I can't see. I can't tie fishing lines if I can't see. My vision getting worse is my biggest fear.

I don't really have any advice, and I should probably be asking _you_ for advice anyways. But, you're not alone. Feel free to DM me if you're ever looking for someone to commiserate with. Edit: or chat about tech with!

I feel you. I'm sorry you're going through that. I'm in that terrifying stage of losing eyesight fast enough that I can notice, of i-could-do-that-last-month/week-but-now-I-can't-anymore. It just sucks. It is scary and somedays you just don't want to check the losses and adapt once again, but then you have to do the most with what you have now because you might not have it for long.

You're not alone. It really sucks.

Sorry to hear that! I wish I could do something to help. :(