by Elizabeth Oleksa
(Editor’s Note: Elizabeth Oleksa is ACBDA’s Peer Mentor Relations Chair.)
I am sure you have heard the hype,
But what is it really all about?
It’s the Peer Mentor Relations Program,
And now is time to clear up any doubts.
A member-only perk exclusive,
A program truly like no other.
A safe space to get and offer support,
So that alone no one needs to suffer.
A harmonious balance
Of peer mentors and mentees
Supporting, encouraging and empowering each other
Through the challenges of blindness and diabetes.
Do you have something specific you know,
Or appreciate being able to share?
Are you struggling alone in silence,
Needing a reminder that there is someone who understands and cares?
Do you have a variety of questions
That have come to your mind
About how to handle so many parts of life,
Balancing your diabetes while being blind?
Then you are in the right place,
No need to look any longer.
As being a part of the PMR Program,
Together we work to become stronger.
Stronger in our knowledge bases and so much more,
Or to get support one desperately needs.
No matter the combination of support,
As newly made friends your stress can ease.
Meeting at your own convenience,
At times that work for you;
Working with a mentor or mentee
Can bring extra light into view.
Because living with two life-altering conditions
Is hard enough on their own.
So, ACBDA created this program
So none of our members need to struggle alone.
Together we can make a difference
In the lives of all we meet.
Living with blindness and diabetes together
Does not need to perpetuate defeat.
So, let us all give a huge cheer
For a program that is changing lives!
Give it a chance,
You may be happily surprised
With the difference it makes
To no longer struggle alone.
Are you ready to be matched,
Then to meet over e-mail, text or phone?
Give it a try for yourself,
Only you can be the one to choose.
So, what do you think, my friend?
What do you really have to lose?