Blindsight — Phoenix: Ashley’s Rise After Darkness

In this powerful episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren speaks with Ashley, a survivor whose journey through trauma, depression, and blindness has forged a message of resilience and rebirth. Ashley opens up about her early struggles with family instability, mental illness, and a life-changing suicide attempt that left her blind but ultimately set her on a path toward self-discovery and purpose. She discusses the process of rebuilding her life after losing her sight, finding independence at Perkins School for the Blind, and redefining strength through the metaphor of the Phoenix—rising renewed from her own ashes. Ashley and Bill explore themes of mental health, self-foundation, interdependence, and the delicate balance between support and autonomy for people who are blind. This episode is a raw and inspiring reminder that healing begins when we stop hiding from the fire and start walking through it. Contact Information Guest: Ashley — Mental Health Advocate & Public Speaker Organization: Perkins School for the Blind Host: Bill Lundgren Producer: Jonathan Price Podcast Network: Aftersight 📩 For Resources or Questions: [e-mail] ☎️ If You or Someone You Know Is Struggling: Dial 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) 🌐 Learn More: www.aftersight.org Show Credits Host: Bill Lundgren Guest: Ashley Producer: Jonathan Price Audio Production: Aftersight Studios Presented by: Aftersight — Empowering the Blind and Low-Vision Community Chapter Markers 00:00 — Introduction and Content Warning 01:00 — Ashley’s Early Life and Family Struggles 05:00 — Mental Health and Early Depression 07:00 — Trauma, Self-Harm, and Institutional Care 09:00 — The Night of the Attempt 13:00 — Waking Up Blind: A New Beginning 16:00 — Recovery and Perkins School for the Blind 18:00 — Becoming the Phoenix 21:00 — Building a Foundation of Self 25:00 — Learning Independence and Advocacy 30:00 — Accepting Blindness and Teaching Others 39:00 — Mental Health, Balance, and Support Systems 46:00 — Lessons in Interdependence and Resilience 49:00 — Steps Toward Healing and Moving Forward 52:00 — Closing Thoughts and Crisis Resources