Throughout the year, we will be spotlighting MWABA members who share their experience with our organization and our various sports and activities. Here’s our Q&A with our first featured member, Vivian Fridas.
MWABA: Where are you from and how long have you been in the Metro DC area?
Vivian: Originally from New York. I have been in the DMV since 2018.
MWABA: What MWABA sport or activity are you involved in?
Vivian: I enjoy the tandem bike rides, hiking, yoga, kayaking, and more.
MWABA: How did you first get involved with MWABA?
Vivian: I started getting involved with the tandem bike rides. I kept hearing about the MWABA group and how they do all these activities. I used to love riding bikes as a child when I had a bit more sight to do it solo. I was so glad to reconnect with that passion and love of mine with the MWABA group. The feeling when the air goes through your hair on a bike ride is unexplainable and something I can’t replicate. I was a dialysis patient for many years, and had no extra energy. In 2021, I received a kidney transplant and felt healthy enough to reach out to the group and start participating in some of the events, like the bike rides and hikes. This made me feel empowered and like I can still be active, even if it is at my own pace.
MWABA: Can you tell us a little about your experience with your sport or activity?
Vivian: I can expand a bit on my experience with the tandem bike riding. As I said, I really enjoy participating in this activity. A few months ago, MWABA highlighted a few events in the fall. I started getting interested in one of the bike races. I ended up signing up for the Great Pumpkin Race in October. Since this was my first race, I chose the easiest level, which was the 24 mile trail. My captain and I had a blast. It ended up being a very hot day, with temperatures reaching low 80s. The trail on the roads in suburban Virginia was beautiful. Being part of an event like that was amazing. There was so much spirit and everyone was cheering each other on. I definitely want to participate in another one of these events, and hopefully push myself to do the longer option.
MWABA: What has been the best part about being involved with MWABA?
Vivian: The best part of involvement with this group is meeting new people. Everyone is on their own journey, and it is great to get to know what that is. There is an exchange and flow of ideas and problem solving that comes naturally when meeting up with other blind and visually impaired people. Connecting with the members on different levels is very rewarding and keeps me feeling inspired and engaged with the world around me.
MWABA: What is something that people might not know about you?
Vivian: I am not shy about sharing my story. I have struggled with kidney disease and failure practically all my life. So, in addition to blindness, I also have other health issues that may prevent me from participating in sports and activities. This means I have to work at my own pace and be more strategic with my energy reserves. In my life, I have had two kidney transplants. The latest one lasted a little over two years, and I am now back on dialysis. This can have an effect on my energy levels and can determine my level of participation with activities. I hope that even though I am back on dialysis, I can still do the same activities I used to do, but maybe adjust the pace and frequency.
MWABA: Do you have any fitness or personal goals you hope to accomplish this year that you would like to share?
Vivian: I just want to continue moving and experiencing the world around me. I hope to continue everything I have tried so far, and maybe push myself to try a few new things as well.
MWABA: What would you say to someone who has been thinking about coming out to a MWABA event or trying a new activity but has yet to take that initial step?
Vivian: Go for it. Take the first step. Start small and build up from there. There may be times when you reach a goal, but then start right back at the beginning again. Nothing wrong with that. Just keep moving and exploring the world around you. Do not feel limited because you have never tried a sport or activity and feel your lack of sight will prevent you from participating. Try everything, and if it is not for you, then you know and can move on to the next.