The Early Days of Outlook Nebraska with Janis Compton

Stacy Cervenka on Roxie in Color and Blind Parenting

In this episode of Outlook On‑Air, we’re joined by Stacy Cervenka, Director of the Iowa Department for the Blind and coauthor of the new middle‑grade novel Roxie in Color. Stacy, who has low vision due to optic nerve hypoplasia, shares how her experiences as a blind parent inspired the story, which follows a girl adjusting to a new school while striving to be seen as more than “the girl with blind parents.” We also explore common misconceptions about blindness, the realities of parenting with vision loss, and the importance of representation for the blind and low-vision community.

Teeing It Up for Youth with Vision Loss

On this episode of Outlook On-Air, Nina Rongisch, Executive Director of Outlook Enrichment, joins us to share more about our mission and Tee It Up Fore Sight, our annual golf tournament happening June 3, 2026. She dives into what makes this year’s event so special, including the return of our youth summer camp, Outlook Explorers, and its impact on youth with vision loss.

Jane’s Journey with LHON

On this episode of Outlook On-Air, we wrap up a few loose ends before welcoming Jane, an Outlook Enrichment client, to the conversation. She shares her experience of losing her vision rapidly in 2022 due to Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON), a genetic condition passed through the maternal line. Jane walks us through what her vision looks like today and how she got connected with Outlook Enrichment for support and resources along the way. She also reflects on how her vision loss temporarily put her hobbies on hold, and how she’s since found new ways to adapt and regain independence, from using her cane and smartphone to exploring tools like Meta glasses and navigating grocery shopping.

Getting a Guide Dog with Alex France

In this episode, Alex France shares his journey with retinitis pigmentosa and how he’s adapted as his vision has changed, including his decision to apply for a "running guide dog." Now partnered with Marina, Alex shares how she’s become an important part of his day-to-day life. He also discusses the responsibilities of being a guide dog handler, the application process, and how guide dogs differ from using a white cane. Plus, Janis Compton returns to answer a listener’s question.

The Early Days of Outlook Nebraska with Janis Compton

In this episode, we welcome Janis Compton, a well-known figure in the history of Outlook Nebraska. As the organization’s first receptionist, Janis wore many hats, stepping in wherever she was needed and helping lay the foundation for what Outlook has become today.   She shares a glimpse of her role, reflects on Outlook’s early days, and discusses what makes it such a special place to work. Janis also gives us an update on what she’s up to now and a few of her favorite hobbies that keep her busy.