Don't worry about your first messages not being approved, I had that problem too. I think if they let any new account post without checking they'd just get loads of spam, that's all it is.

It's really hard for anyone to advise you on meeting people because it's so personal to you. You're kinda right that it helps to be going out and doing stuff. Sometimes people expect that to happen sort of automatically and of course it doesn't, you have to make some basic effort to find stuff to do, book a cab and any help you need, and make the decision to go do it. That's a good idea anyway, just for the sake of fun. You probably don't want to be going out and doing stuff just for the sake of finding a date.

I can give you an example (sorry, person who will recognise herself here!)

Someone I know lost her sight due to RP when she was in her mid teens. She has very very low vision, shapes and lights. She met someone at a place where they had one of those indoor climbing walls. It was attached to a place where they had laser tag and while people with RP can do climbing walls, it's probably a bit tougher to play laser tag. Of course they went and did it anyway and it was dangerous and hilarious and a really good time. Weeks and weeks later, after meeting him a lot, she asked if he wanted to have lunch after work (he was one of the instructors and worked there).

She was taking a risk to do that, he could have said no, he could have said he was seeing someone, and you have to process how you'll feel and what you'll do in that situation and figure out something polite and good spirited to say. And yes, you are taking a risk but you have to understand you're not doing anything wrong in asking the question.

Have you tried dating apps? I know they’re a beast all their own but it could yield something positive. They’re very much a waiting game so I recommend thinking of them as such so you don’t exacerbate your existing anxiety.

Have you looked into any matchmaking services? I think you could even find a matchmaker who is also kind of a dating coach. This way, they can field all the messy bits for you! It might cost a bit, but if it's a priority and you can afford it, could be worth a shot. The matchmaker can look for someone who is forward-thinking/progressive who doesn't mind taking more of the lead or that you are VI. However, the only issue is that you also sound like you might be in a less metro area, which could make it a bit more challenging--you would have to do a search in your area.