Volunteer Transportation Helps Local Writer Fight Vision Loss

In Dancing in the Rain: A Collection of Raindrops and Rainbows, Federal Way author Marie Trotignon reflects on the endurance and resilience of the human spirit. Marie uses each unique vignette to poignantly demonstrate how we can cope with life’s storms by learning to dance in the rain.

Dancing in the Rain is one of Marie’s three published books, but the 84-year-old has been writing stories ever since she learned to write. Writing is a constant in her life; it is her talent, her solace, her joy. Her love for words runs deep.

Marie is also a passionate reader. She has held many different jobs over the years, but her favorite was when she was an elementary school librarian. She knew every book in the school and could make recommendations for children of all ages.

Yet, in one of life’s unfair ironies, Marie developed macular degeneration several years ago. At first, it allowed her to continue on with her normal routines and activities. But it progressed and soon caused words to disappear and turn into mumbo jumbo on pages. Writing became a challenge, and reading was nearly impossible. She struggled to make sense of words.

Losing her vision has been difficult hurdle for Marie to get over, but she is determined. She says, “Books have always been my love, and it’s hard not to read a book. Books are sitting around here waiting to be read. I’d like to find something to help me. ” Marie’s treatment plan includes getting shots in her eyes every two weeks. This process is far from enjoyable, but she is willing to do whatever it takes to hold on to as much sight as she can.

Just like the characters of her book, Marie looks on the bright side of this unpleasant process. One of the silver linings of the injection ordeal is meeting the Volunteer Transportation drivers who take her to/from her eye appointments. She says, “I just can’t praise the program enough. The volunteers are such nice people. They are friendly, competent, and qualified. I’ve enjoyed meeting each and every one of them.”

As a story enthusiast, Marie also values learning about the lives of the volunteer drivers as they chat during the rides. She reports, “They are comfortable conversations. It doesn’t feel awkward with any of them.” Each person has a story to share.

Marie continues to write daily and attends a writing feedback group once or twice per week. Like all authors, she has many ideas about her next projects, but she never knows where they’ll end up. She explains, “You sit down with something in mind, but then it writes itself. Your characters come to life. They lead, and you have to follow them. ”

Marie’s life has unfolded in a similarly unpredictable fashion. There have been bumps and storms. But Marie is still dancing.

You can help more seniors get “on the road” to improved health and peace of mind! More volunteer drivers are needed throughout King County. If you have a reliable vehicle, clean driving record, and some weekday availability, this is the role for you. Call (206) 748-7588, email Hilary at hilaryc@seniorservices.org, or visit www.seniorservices.org/transportation to find out more. Discover why rides change lives!