The USA Today-bestselling biography of a man who lost his sight as an adult and regained it twenty years later without any medical intervention. Unblinded is the true story of New Yorker Kevin Coughlin, who became blind at age thirty-six due to a rare genetic disorder known as Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. Twenty years later, without medical intervention, Kevin’s sight miraculously started … intervention, Kevin’s sight miraculously started to return. He is the only known person in the world who has experienced a spontaneous, non-medically assisted, regeneration of the optic nerve. Unblinded follows Kevin’s descent into darkness, and his unexplained reemergence to sight.
Praise for Unblinded
“A remarkable story of sudden blindness, new vision, and sight regained. It offers great insight into the nature of reality–that which we perceive and that which we create for ourselves.”–Isaac Lidsky, New York Times-bestselling author of Eyes Wide Open
“Its pages take us, at once, on a remarkable true adventure and into the heart and mind of a most extraordinary individual. A beautifully written and inspiring tale, and a reminder to us all about what really matters.”–Robert Kurson, New York Times-bestselling author of Rocket Men
“Unblinded provides honest, profound insight into the emotional trauma that occurs when vision is lost and the path forward in life cannot be seen.”–Lissa Poincenot, National Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy Advocate
“A fascinating, behind-the-scenes tour of what went on during those years of darkness and how Kevin Coughlin, after battling alcoholism, loneliness, prejudice, and perhaps most of all himself, emerges as a man of wisdom and sight.”–Ann Campanella, award-winning and bestselling author of Motherhood: Lost and Foundmore
Here is a story of pain and loss. Of dreams and aspirations coming to a sudden end because one suddenly loses his sense of sight. Yes, this is the “very inspiring” and “heartfelt” story of Kevin Coughlin who is a New York resident whose eyes suddenly develop a “rare genetic disorder called Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. The book begins with Coughlin being abled and enjoying the world of visual arts to the tragic beginning stages of Leber’s. He goes through all sorts of obstacles like discrimination, alcoholism, and his own prideful self and yet managed to overcome them all while being tended to by a guide dog and friends he achieves through meetings and groups he participates in that enables him to release his anxiety stresses, and fears of a blind person. The book is so easy to read and so inspiring that I guarantee you that once you start reading it you will never be able to put it back down until you finish it.
Having a disability is a very demoting experience at first and you will have to develop a fighting bone and a strong will to make your way through it. Kevin learned so much while being blind it took some time for him to get used to all the put-downs, the insults, and the nice comments that may have a condescending tone to them. This book was so relatable in that sense and I learned so much from Kevin’s own story here. There were some incidents in this book that Kevin got through that provided hints and ideas for me to handle my own troubles on my end. Kevin is a true survivor and a true hero with his fighting spirit and his ongoing triumphs as he struggles to survive in a world that may sometimes seem harsh to the disabled. Through it all, Kevin does have a lot of supporters in his journey that ranged from his family to those who help him with Social Services to those who provide services to the blind and disabled. I put this book down with a smile on my face. Content to have a true story that ended happily ever after.
I recommend this book to all those who are disabled who can read and/or those who deal with the disabled whether it’s in the workplace, on the streets, at home, anywhere the disabled may frequent or go to in their daily lives. I also recommend this book to those who may wonder what it feels like to be a disabled individual. This book I believe will open your eyes to the common issues and obstacles that the disabled society have or go through. It is an inspiring story that I guarantee will give you hope and happiness with your own struggles and troubles.
New York City author and lawyer Traci Medford-Rosow comes to this book with extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry as well as corporate law, having written both articles and books in those arenas, but here she steps into the role of sharing a miracle about which she learned – the fascinating and meaningful life of Kevin Coughlin and his response to a medical phenomenon.
The scope of this ‘must read’ book’s content is beautifully outlined in the book before the story is shared. ‘Kevin Coughlin wakes up one morning in 1997 and cannot read the newspaper. Even the bold headlines are fuzzy. Kevin has no idea that he is carrying a rare genetic disorder: Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. Within five days he is blind. The tragedy of his sudden blindness is exacerbated by the fact that Kevin is a serious amateur photographer and lover of the visual arts. Every aspect of his life is plunged into unbearable darkness. Kevin’s loss of sight initiates an exploration of his internal world. After decades of heavy drinking, he embarks on the long and difficult road to sobriety. He discovers the powerful effect of his thoughts and spoken words. He chooses to focus on gratitude for what he has rather than on anger at what he has lost. In a world of darkness, he sees how to be kinder to himself and others. He becomes an activist for the blind as only a person who once had eyesight could and is instrumental in establishing New York City’s first blind advocacy program. Fifteen years later, Kevin catches what seems to be a glimpse of light in his bathroom mirror. Kevin’s is the only documented case in the world of a non-medically assisted regeneration of the optic nerve. Over the next three years, Kevin chronicles the daily progress—the euphoria and the agonizing setbacks. It is from those journal entries and deeply moving conversations with Kevin that author Traci Medford-Rosow has shaped Kevin’s remarkable story – a story of miracles within miracles that will leave the reader wondering what lies behind the reality we think we see.’
Both photographs and selected journal entries, a fine manner of documenting this remarkable story, enhance the layout of the book. The joy of reading both Traci’s account and Kevin’s journal produces a sense of wonder as well as the window to appreciating the power of possibilities and the complexities of nature. The writing by both authors is fluid and awe inspiring, delivering the story of how unexpected tragedies can be associated with equally unexpected resolutions – a factor that radiates so fully from this important book. Not only does this book document a medical phenomenon, a mindful journey by Kevin Coughlin, and the resultant vision for a possible better world, but also the proceeds of the sales of this book are designated for The Mitochondrial Disease Foundation. Very highly recommended on many levels.
I found Kevin to be utterly courageous in re-calling and documenting his journey through blindness to Traci. There is a sincerity and openness that I appreciated, as it made Kevin’s story both an emotional and truly engaging read. I think there is a lot that I can personally gain from his story, for one, it has made me realise just how much I take for granted on a daily basis. ‘Unblinded’ also effectively, thoughtfully, and truthfully highlights the issues faced by a person living with partial sight, or blindness. Raising awareness to help others understand how challenging life can be is massive. If we can all be a little more supportive to one another as a society and a community, then some of the adversities Kevin came up against could have been avoided. I think it is important for authors like Traci to give a voice to people like Kevin, who have such an important story to tell. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and the integrity was endearing.
I read it on my Kindle and liked it so much that I bought the book.
Miracles can happen from the inside out. In Unblinded, Traci Medford-Rosow leads us through the wondrous story of one man’s experience of overcoming blindness. Unblinded takes the reader on a fascinating, behind-the-scenes tour of what went on during those years of darkness and how Kevin Coughlin, after battling alcoholism, loneliness, prejudice, and perhaps most of all himself, emerges as a man of wisdom and sight.
Anyone looking for an inspiring, well-told story of the power and grace of the human spirit will love this book. In clear, unsentimental prose, Unblinded tells the story of one man’s sudden blindness from a neurological condition and his journey through despair and alcoholism to acceptance and growth. I came to love Kevin, and I genuinely ugly-cried several times, but in a good way. I learned so much, too, about what it means to navigate the world without sight, and I especially loved all the details of being matched with and working with a guide dog. The excerpts from Kevin’s own journal are lovely markers throughout. Truly heartwarming and a quick, rewarding read. Highly recommended!
I’ve read so many true story books as the lives of real people can be just as fascinating as any fictional plot. The true story of Kevin Coughlin as told by Traci Medford-Rosow in ‘Unblinded’ is one of the most unbelievable and riveting I have ever read. Twenty years after going blind due to a rare genetic disorder, and without any medical intervention, Kevin miraculously regained his sight. With his sight restored, he began to see the light in a number of ways, emerging from not only literal darkness, but from a figurative one of alcohol abuse, hopelessness, and despair. Kevin is an extraordinary man and he deserves to have his remarkable story told. Insightful, inspiring, and hopeful, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Unblinded: One Man’s Courageous Journey Through Darkness to Sight by Traci Medford-Rosow
Major plus to buying this book is that the author is donating all proceeds to the Mitochondrial Disease Foundation and it’s a super good read.
Starts with praise for authors works and summary of this book.
Story starts out with how and why this book was written.
Diary entry type book that shows when he first noticed the loss of vision and his drinking.
I can totally relate to this story as I’ve also gone to specialist every 6 months for the past 50+ years of my life due to an unknown disease/condition.
Exams and tests done I am very familiar with, devastating outcome for him.
I have been very lucky with the doctors I’ve seen and I know all the technical terms when educating a new doctor due to change in health insurance. Some I know more about the disease then they do.
At times the book is hard for me to read as I’ve been there done that and didn’t even want the tshirt.
Love help the support group gave him I’ve not had a coffee table in centuries as I’d never see it and trip over it.
So Many brick walls, you can’t even imagine the obstacles to just get help.
There are pictures throughout the book showing what is going on during it’s specific chapter.
I recall the hurtful comments from family the first time I used my cane at a family outing-they treated me like I had cancer or something they’d catch.
Not my parents though they were 100% behind me and I think at times they felt they were to blame for my lack of vision.
Learned by listening to this book how to use the sweeping method when using the cane-I was never given instructions. Love how he was still able to take pictures-in his mind while another held the camera and actually took the shot he was describing.
Love taking photos myself of architecture, it’s fascinating to me.
Love hearing of the superfood intake and the other things Kevin is able to find out about that he puts into practice and all research done on his part to cure himself..
Love little things that come back to life that others take for granted.
Treasure every second you have vision and don’t forget there’s always someone out there with worse eye conditions and going through worse than you.
Received this review copy from the author via the publisher and this is my honest opinion.
I liked it very much. Some insight into this man’s sudden blindness. Recommend it.
Helps to show the way to living a
More peaceful life.
It showed me that human strength is amazing. Once you accept what has happened and are positive about it.
Unblinded is a once-in-a-lifetime story, a journey through darkness and light, love and loss, awakening and discovery. Its pages take us, at once, on a remarkable true adventure and into the heart and mind of a most extraordinary individual. A beautifully written and inspiring tale, and a reminder to us all about what really matters.
Unblinded tells a remarkable story of sudden blindness, new vision, and sight regained. It offers great insight into the nature of reality—that which we perceive and that which we create for ourselves.
Such a different story, this book broke my heart; it is a true story of a man that had to deal with Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy disorder; Kevin began losing sight in different stages, at first he didn’t give much thought about it, but as time and sight began to fade and only fog was the only he could see; Kevin search for help with Dr. Myles.
Kevin was a photographer and he worked with his sight; if I couldn’t read anymore, I would depress in a matter a of day; so I just can’t imagine Kevin feeling so desperate for his sight to come back, or even being certain of getting it back; so the only comfort he was able to control was trough alcohol.
This is a story of finding sight in every aspect of life, Kevin was able to connect with his emotions and find peace with this disorder, he got motivation with a group support and learn to live the life destiny gave him with the most energy he could.
Thanks to this book, I can assure that I don’t take for granted all the simplest things we have in life, as Kevin we should endorse every aspect of life and bring the positive in every day.
‘Unblinded’ is Traci Medford-Rosow’s account of a real-life medical miracle, experienced by co-writer Kevin Coughlin. Medford-Rosow skillfully depicts Coughlin’s several decades-long journey, while each chapter is drawn to a close with an excerpt from Coughlin’s personal diaries. This combination of narration and autobiography pair seamlessly to create a poignant and emotional chronicle. It is straightforward and concisely written, with a message that is inspirational and courageous.
Medford-Rosow is a bestselling author, as well as a partner in a New York City law firm. Her writing of this true story is insightful and well-paced, keeping the reader engaged throughout the book. This is a read that will appeal to anyone and everyone. It is a beautiful and riveting page-turner, which will stay with you long after you have put it down. All proceeds of this book are being generously donated to the Mitochondrial Disease Foundation.
Sometimes you read a book that moves you, stays with you long after you’ve read the last page, you can definitely say those things about Unblinded. I’m always interested to learn about people and how they manage life altering situations. I cannot imagine losing my eyesight, and to read about the journey Kevin went on through all his years blind, was inspirational. I enjoyed that he allowed his emotions to be part of the story as he manoeuvred life and the many challenges that he faced.
I believe this book has a lot to offer to readers, whether facing adversity, or not. It teaches a lesson in hope, faith/beliefs, courage, and perseverance. Knowing that life is full of challenges and actually having to face them are two different things. Here, readers are given the opportunity to see that a challenge that seems out of your hands doesn’t mean it should be given up on.
For me, this is a 3.5 star book. I feel that there was a lot more information that could have been shared. It would have been interesting to read about his learning various techniques to adapt to the loss of his sight. Also, when he regains his sight, did he have further testing as to why it came back, would it be permanent, what did his doctor say? Granted, regaining his sight was a miracle and I’m thrilled for him! This wasn’t a bad book, I just feel that the book could have been a bit longer and gone a bit deeper.
Author Traci Medford-Rosow has done a phenomenal job of handling Kevin Coughlin’s story with such poise, honesty and compassion. It is a heart-felt and emotional read from start to finish that really did make me look at my own life, and struggles compared to those of Kevin. Extremely well-written, I almost felt like I was right there with Kevin on his life journey, feeling his rollercoaster of despair and elation right along with him. I honestly shed a few tears whilst reading this truly inspirational read, and I would recommend to anyone out there who looks for some real substance in their books.
This book was recommend to me by a friend who insisted I should read so I gave it a go and my lord its definitely a book I will be recommending to anyone and everyone. Thank you for restoring my faith in humanity. Kevin’s struggle was so touching that it made me reevaluate my own difficulties in life and put them into real perspective. Medford-Rosow touched on so many emotions I have I couldn’t put it this down for more than a few moments before feeling drawn to go back and read on. A brilliant 5 star read.
One mans story of triumph winning through adversity, I’m a sucker for true stories in this genre and that’s why I chose to read this book. A beautifully written story that draws you in making you feel that you are also experiencing Kevins frustrations. The story unfolds at a good pace and kept me totally engrossed right to the very end!
A must read in my opinion, very highly recommended.
A truly inspirational read that will in my opinion appeal to everyone!
A truly inspirational read
One mans story of triumph winning through adversity, I’m a sucker for true stories in this genre and that’s why I chose to read this book. A beautifully written true story that draws you in making you feel compassion that you are also experiencing Kevins frustrations. The story unfolds at a good pace and kept me totally engrossed right to the very end!
A must read in my opinion, very highly recommended.
A truly inspirational read that will I think appeal to everyone!