I just dropped a knitting needle. I turned to pick it up, and I couldn’t find it. I waved my hand around, and it was right there. I should have seen it immediately. But it’s close enough in tone to the floor tile that I couldn’t perceive it until I knew it was there and focused on it deliberately.

I finally got a diagnosis stating that my cataracts are unusual. Although I test at 20/20 vision with my glasses on, I have problems with contrast. This means I can read a page in black and white, but the databases I work with, which have a variety of colors, are a challenge. I try to avoid driving at night, not an easy thing in winter.

I have another appointment in two weeks, and I’m hoping that the surgeon will be able to convince my insurance company to foot the bill for at least part of the surgery. Thanks to my crappy, high deductible plan, I’m going to wind up paying several thousands out of pocket. But it will be worth it. I’m tired of cleaning my glasses to make the fog go away before I remember they’re not the problem. I’m sick of always having tired eyes.