Isaac Grelk understands firsthand the challenges of adjusting to life with vision loss, but he also knows how to thrive despite it. Now, as an Adaptive Technology Trainer at Outlook Enrichment, he’s using his lived experience to support others on their journey toward independence, confidence, and connection. Read on to learn how his journey led him to empowering others.
Isaac’s Early Signs and Diagnosis of Stargardt Disease
Isaac’s vision loss first became apparent to his parents when he struggled to connect with the ball during little league baseball. After two years of tests, he was diagnosed with Stargardt disease, a genetic eye condition that leads to a fatty buildup in the macula, affecting central vision. He explained that both of his parents are gene carriers, and one of his siblings has also been affected. While his vision has remained stable over the years, he acknowledges that it could change with age. Isaac describes his vision as similar to looking around a fist held in front of his nose, explaining that he has a blind spot in the center of his field of vision.
After moving to Omaha in 2016, he was first connected with Outlook Enrichment when his mother discovered the organization online. It provided him with a great opportunity to make new friends who are also blind or visually impaired during high school and to stay active in recreational programs.
Isaac later attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. When asked why he chose that path, he said, “I always liked helping people achieve their goals, whether fitness-related or something personal.”
Embracing Blindness and Finding Personal Success
One of Isaac’s greatest ongoing challenges has been transportation. For a long time, it was difficult for him to get around independently, as he had to rely on his wife or services like Uber or Lyft, which could be costly. This changed when he moved to La Vista and discovered the La Vista-Ralston Special Services Shuttle. He was grateful for a simple application process, having only to fill out a form and hand it to the driver on his first ride. This smaller, more localized service has provided greater flexibility, and the drivers have even learned his routine, so he no longer needs to call ahead to schedule each ride.
In terms of personal growth, Isaac has had several milestones worth celebrating:
- In high school, he learned basic cane travel thanks to a specialist who visited his school.
- Upon arriving at college, he faced a major learning curve. As a visual learner in high school, he had to adapt to a primarily digital learning environment.
- He taught himself how to use Apple accessibility features like VoiceOver.
- During his first week on UNO’s campus, he used his cane to memorize routes and navigate independently.
- Most notably, he’s grown more confident in his identity.
“As I’ve gotten older, I feel more open about my vision loss. I don’t feel the need to hide it; it’s part of who I am.”
Empowering the Blind Community Through Community Programs
Towards the end of college, Isaac’s involvement with Outlook Enrichment deepened when he took on an internship with Outlook Enrichment as part of his practicum at UNO. He landed the internship after an associate overheard him on a tour saying, “This would be a neat place to work.” That small moment turned into a big opportunity.
During his internship, he taught CrossFit classes to clients through our health and wellness program. He also trained his peers to adapt workouts and to follow proper etiquette when interacting with individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
After completing his internship and graduating from college, Isaac transitioned to the manufacturing floor at Outlook Nebraska, gaining experience on the employment-focused side of our organization. When an Adaptive Technology Trainer position opened at Enrichment, he knew it would be a perfect fit.
Today, Isaac works directly with clients, teaching them to navigate technology using accessibility features such as screen readers, voice commands, typing tools, AI, and more. When asked what he enjoys most about the role, Isaac didn’t hesitate:
“The moment clients realize they can independently use their phone again, that ‘ah-ha’ moment is the best.” He always reminds them, “You can do a lot more than you think you can.”
Isaac’s story is a powerful reminder that vision loss doesn’t define a person; it simply reshapes how they experience the world. From learning to adapt at a young age to becoming a trusted tech trainer at Outlook Enrichment, he has embraced his identity and now helps others do the same on their journeys towards independence.
Interested in training with Isaac? Let’s get in touch!
