A Blind Life with Karl

A Blind Life with Karl Hi, I’m Karl! I’m legally blind with just 4% vision in one eye, but that hasn’t stopped me from living fully. Follow along and let’s inspire each other!

I created this page to share my journey, tips, and inspiration for anyone facing vision loss. Hey there, it’s Karl and welcome to my page, 'A Blind Life'. https://ablindlife.com

I wanted to share a little about my journey and why I’m here. Born with a degenerative retinal condition, I’ve been legally blind for much of my life, now living with just 4% central vision in one eye. My other eye was removed in 2024 and replaced with a prosthetic eye. My path hasn’t always been easy- over 40 eye surgeries, tough decisions, and plenty of challenges-but I’ve never let vision loss define me. Instead, I’ve climbed rocks and mountains, skydived, traveled the world, and earned advanced degrees in Special Education and Mental Health. With the help of Braille, assistive tech, my trusty white cane, two amazing guide dogs along the way, and the love of my family and friends, I keep moving forward. I created 'A Blind Life' to connect, empower, and inspire others living with low vision or blindness. Whether you’re facing similar challenges or just want to learn more, I’m here to share pro-tips, real stories, and a little hope. Life is full of love, fun, and laughter-no matter what you can (or can’t) see! If you have questions, want to share your story, or just need a little encouragement, drop a comment or send me a message. Let’s keep inspiring each other and showing the world that anything is possible! Thanks for being part of this adventure. 💙
- Karl

29/07/2026

Hidden above Lake Atitlán, this café is worth every step. Welcome to Café Panorama, tucked into the side of the San Pedro volcano. The hike up is no joke—but the view? Unreal.
Hammocks, board games, and birds gliding over the lake… it is pure peace.
And the coffee? Grown right here on the volcano. Handpicked, carefully turned every 30 minutes, and crafted by Lorenzo and his family with serious dedication.
Breakfast, lunch, or just a moment to breathe—this place hits different.
If you are in Lake Atitlán, do not skip this gem.

A Blind Life with Karl Bat Pedro La Laguna

28/07/2026

Can You Guess Which Eye Is My Prosthetic?

In this A Blind Life with Karl short, people try to guess which eye is my prosthetic eye — and we have a little fun with it. It’s always interesting to see how people react, what they notice, and how a simple question can turn into a good laugh.

Living with a prosthetic eye doesn’t mean I can’t joke around and keep things light. Sometimes the best part is letting people guess and seeing how close they get.

27/07/2026

I Didn't Expect This After My Eye Surgery and Was Really Surprised!

In this video, I share the biggest surprise after my eye surgery — the kind of thing I did not fully expect to happen. It’s a real, honest look at what changed, what I learned, and how life has felt on the other side of recovery.

Learn more at https://ablindlife.com/

26/07/2026

I think she wants a smiley hat like mine. The Galleria Karl BlindLife Karl Bat Tamila Marie

Two years after eye removal surgery, I’m sharing what life with a prosthetic eye has really been like — the questions, t...
21/07/2026

Two years after eye removal surgery, I’m sharing what life with a prosthetic eye has really been like — the questions, the awkward moments, the adjustments, and yes, the funny stuff too.

This journey has had its challenges, but it has also taught me a lot, and I’ve learned to take things one day at a time with a little humor along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live after eye removal surgery, this video is for you.

Come hang out with me as I answer common questions, share some honest thoughts, and talk about what day-to-day life looks like now.

Two years after eye removal surgery, I’m sharing what life with a p...

09/07/2026

Savoring History and Flavor at Tertulianos in Xela

Visiting Tertulianos Restaurant, Bar and Café in Quetzaltenango (Xela), Guatemala felt like stepping straight into living history with a fork in hand. This isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an Italian-style building that has worn many lives over the years, shifting from a traditional 40 room home to a social gathering space and, eventually, into the vibrant restaurant and café it is today. You can feel that evolution in the walls, the layout, and the way old architectural character blends with a modern, welcoming vibe.

What I love is how Tertulianos has changed without losing its soul. You get the sense that countless conversations, celebrations, and quiet moments have happened there, and you’re simply adding your own chapter to that story.

And then there’s the food.
The salmon we had was honestly beyond anything we expected—rich, layered flavors that tasted like they’d been perfected over years, not just thrown together. The hamburger was just as memorable: juicy, beautifully seasoned, and carefully crafted so that every bite felt special. These weren’t just plates of food; they were experiences that stayed with us long after we left.

Tours of the building start at 4 PM and I definitely recommend you make time for one. It’s a great way to appreciate the history behind the space you’re dining in. And whatever you do, be sure to explore the wine cave. It’s one of those hidden gems that turns a nice dinner into a truly unique outing.

If you find yourself in Xela, we highly recommend putting Tertulianos on your list. Go for the story, stay for the atmosphere, and let the salmon and hamburger surprise you in the best possible way.

Experience Tertulianos Restaurant, Bar and Café in Quetzaltenango (Xela), Guatemala—a historic building with 4 PM tours, a must-see wine cave, and unforgettable salmon and hamburgers.

​⁠ ​⁠

05/07/2026

Exploring Guatemala City with low vision reminded me that adventure isn’t about perfect sight—it’s about being willing to show up, explore, and enjoy what’s in front of you.

On this trip, we kept things simple: good food, good company, and a city worth discovering. Ceilo was a favorite—great atmosphere, great flavors, and the kind of place where you can just relax and be present. San Martín, the classic bakery, felt like comfort in pastry form. I might not see every detail of the display case, but I definitely experience every bite.

Terraza 14 was another highlight. There’s something about being on a rooftop—feeling the breeze, hearing the city below, and knowing you’re part of that energy—that doesn’t rely on vision at all. The sounds, the conversations, the clink of dishes and glasses all build their own picture.

Walking along the flower-lined paths of Avenida Las Américas, I paid attention to what I could notice: the change in texture under my feet, the sound of traffic in the distance, people passing by, the subtle shift in air near trees and plants. That’s what exploring with low vision looks like for me—using all the senses I have, and letting that be enough.

I share this because I know a lot of people with low vision or blindness wonder if travel is still worth it. It is. You don’t have to see everything to enjoy it. I only have 4% vision and one eye. What I have learned is that you just have to go, at your own pace, in your own way.

​⁠ BlindLife Marie

28/06/2026

Scenes from San Pedro la Laguna. We enjoyed breakfast and coffee at Tornado's Coffee and a lovely lunch El Gato Perdido Bistro | Restaurante along the shores of Lake Atitlan

28/06/2026

Scenes from San Pedro la Laguna. We enjoyed breakfast and coffee at Tornados Cafe and a lovely lunch at El Gato Perdido Bistro along the shores of Lake Atitlan Karl Bat Karl BlindLife Tamila Marie

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San Pedro La Laguna

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