Blind Adventurer PHIL TEMPLET: Finding fulfillment in the face of adversity

PHIL TEMPLET was born completely blind, regained vision in one eye shortly after birth, and then later lost all vision when he turned 40. Despite being completely blind, Phil has been a successful hospital administrator, appointed by the Governor to sit on various committees, and lived a life full of adventure. From skydiving to snow skiing and turkey hunting to officiating weddings , Phil is pretty much up for any challenge that comes his way. In this conversation Phil shares his insights and experiences that has helped him create a life of fulfillment even in the face of extreme adversity. Phil is one of my dearest friends and has been a true guiding force in my life. Join us in this inspiring conversation with Blind Adventurer, Phil Templet.   Show Notes: :15 Intro 3:42 Overview of Affiliated Blind of Louisiana 4:31 Assistive technology for the blind 6:41 Born with congenital glaucoma 9:10 Gains vision in right eye 10:21 What Phil actually sees 10:48 "I was going to go blind" 12:15 First spike in loss of vision 12:35 First cornea transplant 13:22 Thought process of preparing for blindness 14:10 Light and recorded memory in the brain 15:42 Eyes surgically removed 16:21 Fun with removable eyes 19:40 Why the need for prosthesis 25:25 "There's nothing to be sorry for" 26:30 Everyone else accepts his blindness 28:06 Difference between hope and finale 28:41 At peace with blindness 30:12 Not being held back 32:58 "…going blind was not that big a deal…" 34:23 Guiding belief: I am alive 34:42 Being grateful for life 36:26 Trying to give back 37:40 Not allowing one event to define you 38:24 Trying out new things 38:47 Running, skydiving, turkey hunting, hiking in the Himalayas, skiing 40:01 Gratitude from tragedy 45:40 Future adventures 48:41 Half marathon training 50:20 Advice for those experiencing vision loss