Success Stories

The many faces of success are the result of services offered by the Iowa Department for the Blind.
The Iowa Department for the Blind believes all Iowans can lead productive, fulfilling lives – including those who happen to be blind or visually impaired. The Department supports and encourages independent living and full participation in life – at home, at work and in communities. Read about some of our success stories.

Tracy's Story

Some people might feel they are best described by their work life, some might feel they can be described by their education, some by their past experiences, others by certain characteristics, and some by talents and achievements. You can come to know Tracy Mosman through any of the above avenues and you will come to know a man of quiet success and challenges well met.
Read Tracy's full story.

Edna's Story

Edna sat in the office listening to the doctor say that she was legally blind and that her driving days were over. If you had told her then that she could still be an independent and active member of her community, she wouldn’t have believed it. But that was before she discovered the Independent Living Program offered through the Iowa Department for the Blind.
Read Edna's full story.

Harlan's Story

“You know, if I hadn’t become blind, I probably never would have met you and would still be sitting in a nursing home,” Harlan Mathes said to his Independent Living teacher one morning as they chatted about his recent move from a local nursing home to his new residence.
Read Harlan's story.

Rosalyn's Story

At age 62, Rosalyn experienced sudden and extensive vision loss from macular degeneration. For over 20 years, she had worked in the computing field and the sudden change in her vision greatly impacted her ability to do her job. Rosalyn was introduced to a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor from the Department and began her journey to successful job retention.
Learn about Rosalyn's story.

Scott's Story

Scott became blind at age 38 due to a genetic condition. After having lost his job at Maytag, Scott knew that he needed to make some changes in his life and turned to the Department for services and training. Scott enrolled in the Orientation Center in 2005.
Learn about Scott's success story.