Donna’s Story
In May 2025, Donna Williams earned her well-deserved master’s degree in social work from the University of Indianapolis. Holding her diploma, she proved to herself and the world that anyone can find success—even those who are legally blind.
Donna has always been a high achiever. As a dedicated mother, scholar and community advocate, she led a busy life helping others navigate their health and achieve their dreams. So, after multiple retina tears rendered her legally blind in 2008, she thought her life of serving others was over.
However, her unrivaled determination paired with Bosma’s programs, helped her manage her vision loss and prevail beyond her diagnosis. After her time at Bosma concluded, she pursued a new degree and returned to her ideal life of helping those in need.
Blindness Can Impact Anyone, At Any Time
In the early 2000s, Donna Williams, a single mother, spent her 30s working in an OB-GYN practice and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing while raising her young son. But with one semester left in her schooling, her retinas tore and detached six times over a span of four months, requiring eight surgeries and five procedures, and causing severe glaucoma.
“I thought,” she said, tearfully recalling the moment, “my life was full at the time. I can close my eyes, but I’m always reminded when I open them that I’m legally blind.”
Donna’s family, church and local non-profits supported her as she slowed down and managed her diagnosis. By the time her son entered high school, Donna was ready to resume her work helping others. So, she started vision rehabilitation training at Bosma’s Visionary Solutions Center.
Determination + Bosma = Success
Despite her condition, Donna never lost her resolve. She worked with Michelle, a licensed social worker at Bosma, to learn skills designed to help her live independently, including reading Braille, navigating with a white cane, and using assistive technology intended to aid people with vision loss.
Bosma is a ‘hidden gem’ in Donna’s eyes. “The training at Bosma made me feel happy. It made me feel empowered, it made me feel safe, it made me feel confident.”
The 16-week vision rehabilitation program at Bosma helped Donna develop the necessary skills to live independently with her vision loss. With the tools and resources Bosma offered, Donna found a path back to her true ambitions.
But ultimately, it was her determination that helped her prevail through her diagnosis and training. She is now focused on becoming a licensed clinical social worker to support people who are blind or visually impaired, the same way Bosma’s social workers supported her.
“You really have to dig deep within your own strength,” she said, “because no one else can do it for you.”
Bosma supports people who are blind or visually impaired as they navigate vision loss, regain their confidence and pursue their dreams. If you are interested in supporting others like Donna, learn more here.