This podcast is for people with Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS), their caregivers, and allies. It's a space to offer awareness, information, support and hope. CBS is a condition that causes visual hallucinations in people who are blind or visually impaired. Host Shaimond Foye and occasional co-hosts interview people with CBS, their caregivers, ambassadors, PhDs, and medical professionals. We also explore broader topics relevant to the visually impaired community, providing helpful information ...
…
continue reading

1
Episode 47: Caring for a Loved One with Charles Bonnet Syndrome: Jo Hill's Story
51:16
51:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:16In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond speaks with Jo Hill, who shares her experiences as a caregiver for her husband, Frankie. Frankie has been dealing with glaucoma for over 20 years and started experiencing CBS symptoms in December 2018. Jo discusses the challenges they faced, the path to discovering CBS through re…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 46: Exploring Intracortical Visual Prosthesis with Dr. Phil Troyk
36:57
36:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:57In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond interviews Dr. Phil Troyk, a professor and leading research innovator in the field of biomedical engineering at the Illinois Institute of Technology. Dr. Troyk discusses the FDA-approved Intracortical Visual Prosthesis (ICVP) project, which aims to help blind individuals perceive…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 45: Exploring Vision Restoration with Functional Neurosurgeon Dr. Nader Pouratian
39:40
39:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:40In this episode of The Charles Bonnet Syndrome Podcast, host Shaimond interviews Dr. Nader Pouratian, a professor and chair of neurological surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. Dr. Pouratian discusses his work on experimental treatments aimed at restoring vision for individuals who have lost it, specifically through the use of neura…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 44: Living with CBS: Frank Hill Sr.'s Story
26:41
26:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:41In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond speaks with Frank Hill Sr., who has experienced visual hallucinations caused by CBS for six years due to glaucoma. Frank shares his initial confusion about the condition and describes the vivid and intrusive visions he encounters daily seeing animals, unclear human figures and mo…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 43: Bettie Stanger-Black's CBS Caregiving Experience
54:24
54:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:24In this episode of The Charles Bonnet Syndrome Podcast, Shaimond interviews Bettie Stanger-Black, who shares her journey as a caregiver for her mother who has CBS. Bettie recounts the initial signs of hallucinations, the diagnostic process, and her challenges as a caregiver. They discuss the importance of proper diagnosis, the emotional toll of car…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 42: The Journey and Mission of Mary Carmel's Light
1:16:31
1:16:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:16:31In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond interviews Eva and Kevin Potts, co-founders of Mary Carmel's Light. The organization, named in honor of their mother, was recently designated a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. They share their deeply personal and challenging journey of identifying and coping with Mary Carmel's Charles Bonne…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 41: Art Beyond Sight with Selene Carboni
25:30
25:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:30In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond interviews Selene Carboni, an art educator from Italy who specializes in teaching visually impaired individuals how to create and appreciate art. Selene discusses her journey from an art historian to advocating for the artistic capabilities of blind individuals. She shares her ex…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 40: Guide Dogs 101 with Guiding Eyes for the Blind’s Melissa Carney
40:23
40:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:23In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond interviews Melissa Carney, Community Outreach and Graduate Support Manager at Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Melissa shares insights into her role, the criteria for obtaining a guide dog, the training process for guide dogs, and her personal experiences as a guide dog handler. She d…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 39: Phyllis Stanger’s Journey with CBS
39:36
39:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:36In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond welcomes Phyllis Stanger, who discusses her experiences living with CBS. Phyllis describes her journey from being diagnosed with macular degeneration to later developing CBS symptoms, which include visual hallucinations. She shares the challenges she faces, such as giving up driv…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 38: Exploring Art Beyond Vision with Eriko Watanabe
36:43
36:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:43In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond talks with Eriko Watanabe, a blind artist from Augsburg, Germany. Eriko, originally from Japan, shares her compelling journey from losing her sight due to pediatric cancer to becoming an artist specializing in tactile line drawings. Despite her blindness, Eriko creates detailed a…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 37: Dr. John Kennedy Discusses Imagery, Perception and CBS
50:44
50:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:44In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond interviews Dr. John Kennedy, a psychologist and senior investigator from the University of Toronto. Dr. Kennedy shares his extensive research on imagery, perception, and the fascinating abilities of blind individuals in creating art. He discusses his encounters with various visua…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 36: Kim Kimberley's Journey with Charles Bonnet Syndrome
57:17
57:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:17In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond interviews Kim Kimberley who shares her personal experiences of living with CBS after sustaining a head injury from being assaulted. She discusses the nature of her hallucinations, interactions with medical professionals, and the coping mechanisms she has developed, including the…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 35: Neuro-Ophthalmologist Andrew G. Lee, MD
39:27
39:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:27In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond interviews Dr. Andrew G. Lee, a neuro-ophthalmologist and the Herb and Jene Lyman Centennial Chair of Ophthalmology at Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital. They discuss Charles Bonnet Syndrome, a condition involving visual hallucinations due to vision loss, and expl…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 34: CBS Researcher Aysha Kinakool
1:04:40
1:04:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:40In this episode of The Charles Bonnet Syndrome Podcast Shaimond interviews doctoral candidate Aysha Kinakool from York University, the discussion covers various aspects of CBS. Topics include the complexity of studying CBS, patient experiences, and the necessity of raising awareness and education among healthcare providers. The conversation highlig…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 33: The Vivid World of Ruth Bieber
52:11
52:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:11In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, Shaimond interviews Ruth Bieber, a retired social worker and artist living with Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS). Bieber, who was diagnosed with legal blindness at age 6, shares her journey of losing central vision and later experiencing CBS. At 67, she reflects on her 25-year experience with CBS…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 32: Cognitive Neuroscientist Dr. Robin Walker
38:56
38:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:56In this episode of The Charles Bonnet Syndrome Podcast, host Shaimond welcomes Professor Robin Walker, a cognitive neuroscientist from Royal Holloway, University of London. They discuss Dr. Walker's extensive research on visual perception and macular degeneration, and his current focus on Charles Bonnet Syndrome. The conversation delves into a read…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 31: Patient Advocate Richie Kahn
1:07:04
1:07:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07:04In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond interviews Richie Kahn, a public health professional, clinical researcher, and patient advocate. Richie shares his personal journey with optic atrophy and Charles Bonnet Syndrome. With a background in public health and a passion for patient advocacy, Richie talks about his career…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 30: Cognitive Appraisal Theory and Reframing Your Thoughts
9:56
9:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:56In this episode of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome podcast, host Shaimond delves into Cognitive Appraisal Theory, a psychological framework that explains how our interpretations of events shape our emotional responses. He explains the two stages of cognitive appraisal—primary and secondary—and provides therapeutic techniques such as cognitive restructu…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 29: Unraveling CBS: Dr. Kat Da Silva Morgan's Neuroscientific Insights
38:44
38:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:44In this episode, Shaimond interviews Dr. Kat Da Silva Morgan from Newcastle University's Translational and Clinical Research Institute. Dr. Morgan discusses her extensive research into Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS), explaining her journey from psychology to neuroscience and her focus on visual hallucinations. She elaborates on the unique aspects of…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 28: Neuroscience of CBS with Dr. Jennifer K. Steeves
56:47
56:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:47In this episode, Shaimond and guest host Duchess Antoinette McDonald-Ellis welcome cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Jennifer K Steeves from York University. Dr. Steeves discusses visual and sensory processing, emphasizing her research on Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS). She recounts her discovery of CBS through collaborative research and shares insights …
…
continue reading

1
Episode 27: Living with and Researching CBS: Dr. Anica Zeyen's Dual Perspective
1:08:56
1:08:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:08:56In this episode, Shaimond welcomes Dr. Anica Zeyen, a UK-based researcher who has CBS and cone-rod dystrophy. Dr. Zeyen shares her experiences with vision loss and the onset and development of her CBS symptoms. She offers insights into coping mechanisms and discusses how trust, relationships, and communication play a crucial role in managing the co…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 26: The Blind Life: Sam Seavey's Tech Tips for Visual Impairment
44:29
44:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:29In this episode, Shaimond and guest host Dr. Gary Cusick welcome Sam Seavey, an online health advocate for the blind community and owner of the popular YouTube channel 'The Blind Life.' Sam shares his journey with Stargardt's disease and how it took him decades to fully accept his visual impairment. He discusses his work at the Bluegrass Council of…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 25: From Viral Infection to CBS: Nina Chesworth's Visual Odyssey
57:25
57:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:25In this episode, Shaimond welcomes Nina Chesworth, a volunteer with Esme's Umbrella, to share her personal journey and insights into living with Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS). Nina discusses the complexities of her vision loss stemming from a viral infection and subsequent accidents, leading to her current state of blindness. She candidly describes…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 24: Coping Mechanisms, General Tips, Natural Remedies and More
14:07
14:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:07In this episode, Shaimond shares a comprehensive guide to coping with Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS). He covers general tips, coping mechanisms, natural remedies, and innovative treatments gathered from people with CBS and experts in the medical and research field. Key topics include recognizing hallucinations, stress management, utilizing support g…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 23: Lucia Ricardo from the CNIB
1:12:54
1:12:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:12:54In this episode, Shaimond and Antoinette interview Lucia Ricardo, a program lead at the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB). They explore the condition's history, personal experiences, the importance of awareness among medical professionals, and the impact of peer support. Lucia shares insights into the CNIB's efforts in supporting ind…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 22: Visualizing CBS: Vicky Hamilton's Artistic Research
59:27
59:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:27In this episode, Shaimond interviews Vicky Hamilton, a PhD candidate performing research on Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) at Griffith University, Queensland College of Art and Design in Brisbane, Australia. Hamilton shares her journey with CBS. Utilizing art and digital technology, Hamilton's research focuses on recreating the visions experienced b…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 21: Low Vision Occupational Therapist Meagan Chapman
49:22
49:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:22In this episode, Shaimond interviews Megan Chapman, an occupational therapist specializing in low vision, from Low Vision Works in Sarasota, Florida. They discuss the role of occupational therapy in helping individuals with low vision, including those suffering from Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS). Chapman explains the broad scope of occupational the…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 20: Illustrating CBS with Graphic Novelist Gareth Brookes
38:06
38:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:06In this episode, Shaimond and guest co-host Dr. Gary Cusick interview graphic novelist and researcher Gareth Brookes. Brookes discusses his graphic novel, “A Thousand Coloured Castles” which features a main character with Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS). Inspired by his grandmother's experiences with the condition, Brookes aims to raise awareness and…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 19: Advancing CBS Research with Dr. Jasleen Jolly
39:48
39:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:48In this episode, Shaimond interviews Dr. Jasleen Jolly, Associate Professor in Vision and Eye Research at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge, England and Director of Jolly Vision Science. Dr. Jolly discusses her extensive work and research on Charles Bonnet Syndrome. She explains the misconceptions about the syndrome, its prevalence and highligh…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 18: Scot Muirden from the Charles Bonnet Syndrome Foundation
1:25:41
1:25:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:25:41In this episode, Shaimond interviews Scot Muirden, Director at Charles Bonnet Syndrome Foundation AU. He explains the mission of the Foundation, which includes providing direct services to those affected by CBS and raising awareness within the medical and healthcare sectors. The conversation covers the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to …
…
continue reading

1
Episode 17: Blindness and CBS: Robin's Story of Resilience
48:59
48:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:59In this episode, Shaimond interviews Robin Davies who is totally blind and shares his journey with Best disease and Charles Bonnet Syndrome. The episode emphasizes resilience, the value of community and support, and how remaining engaged with life and passions can help navigate the challenges of visual impairment and Charles Bonnet syndrome. Contac…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 16: CBS Support with Chris Wilsdon
36:25
36:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:25In this episode, Shaimond interviews Chris Wilsdon a representative from the Kent Association for the Blind, to discuss Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) and how his organization supports the visually impaired in Kent and parts of London, UK. Wilsdon shares his personal journey from experiencing vision problems to dedicating over 15 years to aiding tho…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 15: Empowering Caregivers with Tanya Straker
44:50
44:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:50In this episode, Shaimond interviews Tanya Straker, who shares her journey as a caregiver and discusses her book “6 Life Hacks For Family Caregivers,” her weekly caregiver support group, Coffee with Caregivers, and shares tips to help caregivers manage, among other things she does to support people on their journey to being their best self. For mor…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 14: Retinitis Pigmentosa to CBS: Susan's Visual Journey
23:02
23:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:02In this episode, Shaimond and Eva interview Susan Michel who shares her journey with Retinitis Pigmentosa, Macular Degeneration and Charles Bonnet Syndrome. For help with Charles Bonnet Syndrome call 1-704-389-0160 Contact us at [email protected] For a link to attend Dr. Gary Cusick’s U.S.-based weekly virtual CBS support group and CBS car…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 13: CBS Through an Ophthalmologist's Lens: Dr. Leonid Skorin Jr.
1:03:40
1:03:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:40In this episode, Shaimond and Eva interview Dr. Leonid Skorin, an ophthalmologist at the Mayo Clinic. He gives an ophthalmic view of Charles Bonnet Syndrome. Contact Dr. Skorin at [email protected] For help with Charles Bonnet Syndrome call 1-704-389-0160 Contact us at [email protected] For a link to attend Dr. Gary Cusick’s U.S.-base…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 12: Macular Degeneration and CBS with Irvine Harris
49:46
49:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:46In this episode, Shaimond and Eva interview Irvine Harris who shares his journey with Macular Degeneration and Charles Bonnet Syndrome. Contact Irvine at [email protected] Irvine’s website https://savinghumanity.net/ For help with Charles Bonnet Syndrome call 1-704-389-0160 Contact us at [email protected] For a link to attend Dr. Gary Cus…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 11: Esme's Umbrella: Judith Potts on CBS Awareness and Support
1:10:14
1:10:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:10:14In this episode, Shaimond interviews Esme’s Umbrella founder, Judith Potts. She shared how she first became aware of Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) when it affected her mother and how she founded Esme's Umbrella, her Charity that focuses on raising awareness, offering support and sourcing funding for research for CBS. Contact Judith Potts at judith@…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 10: A Son's Perspective: Dave's Caregiving Journey
42:29
42:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:29In this episode, Shaimond and Eva interview Dave Hommel who shares his story as a caregiver for his mother who has journey Charles Bonnet Syndrome. Contact Dave at [email protected] For help with Charles Bonnet Syndrome call 1-704-389-0160 Contact us at [email protected] For a link to attend Dr. Gary Cusick’s U.S.-based weekly virtu…
…
continue reading
In this episode, Shaimond discusses who Charles Bonnet was. For help with Charles Bonnet Syndrome call 1-704-389-0160 Contact me at [email protected] For a link to attend Dr. Gary Cusick’s U.S.-based weekly virtual CBS support group and CBS caregivers support group email Dr. Cusick at [email protected] For support or resources for CBS…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 8: Navigating Glaucoma and CBS with Theo's Blue
48:21
48:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:21In this episode, Shaimond and Eva interview Theo Blue who shares his journey with Glaucoma and Charles Bonnet Syndrome. Contact Theo at [email protected] For help with Charles Bonnet Syndrome call 1-704-389-0160 Contact us at [email protected] For a link to attend Dr. Gary Cusick’s U.S.-based weekly virtual CBS support group and CBS care…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 7: Supporting a Mother with CBS: Janet's Story
1:06:58
1:06:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:06:58In this episode, Shaimond and Eva interview Janet Duke, who shares her story as a family member and caregiver for her mother who has Charles Bonnet Syndrome. Contact Janet at [email protected] For help with Charles Bonnet Syndrome call 1-704-389-0160 Contact us at [email protected] For a link to attend Dr. Gary Cusick’s U.S.-based weekly …
…
continue reading

1
Episode 6: Dr. Gary Cusick: CBS Education and Support
1:06:52
1:06:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:06:52Dr. Gary Cusick shares how he has helped the blind and visually impaired community for decades and why he has chosen to help people with Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) as his life’s passion. As of the release of this episode, he is the leading authority on CBS education, research and support in the U.S. Contact Dr. Gary Cusick at 502-439-0398 or gar…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 5: Four Decades of Vision Support with Jonathan's Ward
40:12
40:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:12In this episode, Shaimond and Eva interview Jonathan Ward who shares his journey helping the blind and visually impaired community for nearly 40 years. He also discusses his visual impairment and first-hand experiences with Charles Bonnet Syndrome. Contact Jonathan at [email protected] For help with Charles Bonnet Syndrome call 1-704…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 4: Macular Degeneration and CBS: Carole's Experience
1:10:54
1:10:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:10:54In this episode, Shaimond and Eva interview Carole Hommel who shares her journey with Macular Degeneration and Charles Bonnet Syndrome. For help with Charles Bonnet Syndrome call 1-704-389-0160 Contact us at [email protected] For a link to attend Dr. Gary Cusick’s U.S.-based weekly virtual CBS support group and CBS caregivers support group…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 3: A CBS Caregiver's Perspective with Ken's Ellis
37:35
37:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:35In this episode, Shaimond and Eva interview Ken Ellis, who shares his story as a caregiver for his wife, Antoinette, who has Charles Bonnet Syndrome. Contact Ken at [email protected] For help with Charles Bonnet Syndrome call 1-704-389-0160 Contact us at [email protected] For a link to attend Dr. Gary Cusick’s U.S.-based weekly …
…
continue reading

1
Episode 2: Living with Glaucoma and CBS: Antoinette's Journey
58:52
58:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:52In this episode, Shaimond and Eva interview Antoinette McDonald-Ellis who shares her journey with Glaucoma and Charles Bonnet Syndrome. Contact Antoinette https://www.facebook.com/antoinette.mcdonald1 For help with Charles Bonnet Syndrome call 1-704-389-0160 Contact us at [email protected] For a link to attend Dr. Gary Cusick’s U.S.-based …
…
continue reading

1
Episode 1: What is Charles Bonnet Syndrome
32:27
32:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:27In this episode, hosts Shaimond Foye and Eva Potts introduce themselves and discuss what Charles Bonnet Syndrome is and why they created this podcast. For help with Charles Bonnet Syndrome call 1-704-389-0160 Contact us at [email protected] For a link to attend Dr. Gary Cusick’s U.S.-based weekly virtual CBS support group and CBS caregiver…
…
continue reading