Maura Mazzocca

I know I would not be where I am today without the Carroll Center. They helped me to restore my life in the fullest possible way. But it took time.

My first experience was at the Carroll Center’s independent living training program after loosing my sight to diabetic retinopathy. It was a phenomenal program! I learned everything from reading Braille to traveling safely. It was especially helpful to once again be able to measure my own blood sugar and administer my own insulin. For someone who has diabetes, that is essential to be truly independent.

Next I took the Computer Access program. I had used computers before, when I was sighted, but here I learned the latest “talking” software and adaptive technology. Now I am computer literate non-visually.

Then the Carroll Center offered to hire me as a receptionist—my first job since losing my sight. I had to handle the phone system, take messages, track down staff members, greet the public. It was challenging work, and a real confidence booster!

Now, best of all, the Carroll Center helped me to find a job as a human resource recruiter for a major Boston financial firm. I can’t tell you how much it means to be back at work in my chosen field!

Every step of the way, the Carroll Center has encouraged me to set new goals and enabled me to achieve them.