Episode 080: Living Blind: Independence, Advocacy & Thriving with Vision Loss

What does everyday life really look like when you're born with severe vision loss?In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, Dr. Rani Banik, MD speaks with her patient, Milica Milić, who lives with Leber's Congenital Amaurosis (LCA). Milica shares her remarkable journey—from childhood diagnosis to becoming a teacher of students with visual impairments and an advocate for accessibility and independent living.Together they discuss early signs of congenital vision loss, navigating school and work, self-advocacy, assistive technology, Braille, orientation and mobility, and how people with blindness can build fulfilling, independent lives.Whether you have low vision, know someone who does, or simply want to better understand life through a different perspective, this conversation is filled with practical advice, inspiration, and hope. In this episode you'll learn:• What is Leber's Congenital Amaurosis• How blindness affects everyday life• Why self-advocacy is one of the most important life skills• How families can better support children with vision loss• Practical strategies for thriving—not just surviving—with blindnessAbout My GuestMilica Milić is a teacher of students with visual impairments and an advocate for accessibility and independent living. Diagnosed with Leber's Congenital Amaurosis (LCA), she combines her lived experience with professional expertise to help children with visual impairments build confidence, independence, and life skills. She also mentors young adults with vision loss, helping them navigate education, careers, and daily living. Connect with Dr. Rani Banik, MD🌿 Website: https://www.drranibanik.com🛍 Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik▶️ Subscribe for weekly videos on eye health, nutrition, brain health, and integrative medicine.#Blindness #LowVision #LebersCongenitalAmaurosis #EyeHealth #VisionLoss #Accessibility #NeuroOphthalmology #EyeQPodcast #DrRaniBanik