My husband and I are blind. We are authors. We have been published. We read. You can read with your ears/it's called audio, if you don't wish to learn braille. We write on the computer, it's called typing and we use a screen reader, nvda, it's amazing and free. The fact anyone feels they can't do such basic things is really infuriating and insulting and frankly shockingly ignorant for 2022/2023. Really, thought people were smarter these days, sorry but seriously, Bruh. I am typing this all by my blind self right now. LOL. BTW, thank you for describing your paintings, that was cool, so I could understand your art a bit. Very neat. I love anything fantasy for art and did you say you painted a doll? Very cool/interesting/spooky. Randomly I wanted to add that I am not one of those super easily offended people, really it takes a lot but wow.

I'm absolutely crushed for you, Brian. One of my biggest fears as my eyes have degraded rapidly the past decade is losing sight. What is happening to you simply isn't fair and I hate it. Love you, Bubba.

I can't begin to imagine how devastating this must be for you as an artist, writer, and, of course, a reader. I admire the honesty and strength it took to do this on KZfaq because you don't owe us anything about your private life or medical condition. For you to do this shows the kind of person you are. Honour and love to you from this dedicated subscriber. Wishing you the best!

I never cried watching a youtube video, but you got me with this one. You’ve always defied expectations and have faith you’ll come out of this stronger than ever! Just remember that nothing can suppress talent and expression when it comes from the heart. We will keep following and appreciating you regardless.

I am absolutely sad over this, Brian. Your art, whether it's painting or books, is amazing. But more than that, you're a great person, and you don't deserve any of this happening to you. There's not much I can do except pray and hope that things WILL get better for you. Once again, so sorry to hear this, and I wish you nothing but the best. :(

This breaks my heart, Brian. Your talent is enormous. To be able to paint so incredibly well and to also be a successful author is amazing. Your artistic achievements have been brilliant. Also, your channel means an awful lot to us, your viewers. We love you. We really do. Hang in there, my friend.

I’m really sorry for what is happening. The only silver lining I can think of is we live in an age where audiobooks are really accessible. I’ll keep watching all your reviewers and supporting you, you got this! Just like how you went from painting to writing published novels I’m sure you can make things work.

Oh man. The end just broke my heart. Such a good soul ❤️

Brian, I was so devastated to hear this and it's so unfair. I wish you the very best, and if there is anybody who can kick this problem in the ass and come out on top - it's you!

Holy shit Brian, I had no idea you painted. And they’re GREAT!

Nothing but love for you Durfee. Absolutely devastated for you and just want you to know your books kick ass, your paintings kick ass, I hope your Raiders kick ass this season. It's truly unfair that your vision is failing you and potentially taking so many talents from the world. I sincerely wish nothing but the best for you and hope that the surgery at least corrects it enough to stave off your vision loss for a while.

Thanks for everything you do and all that you give to us!

This was pretty heartbreaking. I feel so bad and just want you to know how much I appreciate not only your channel but your books and art as well. You're an incredibly talented guy with a heart of gold. The world would be better off with more people like you. Best wishes to you, sending all my positive energy to you

As a fellow life long reader.. I can't imagine being faced with this. You're in my prayers man. Thank you for putting your art into the world, the world is better with your paintings and fiction in it. Get well soon man

I am blind, and because of screen readers, I can write and read. Book share, will give you access to a lots of information, though it is with synthesized speech. You can write, as long as you have a good familiarity with the keyboard. Painting, that’s a different story all together. If you need any help, feel free to contact me. I am Dictation for gas because I’m lazy. So please do not judge the quality of my writing by my dictation.

I know words don’t do any justice, but I want you to know how much your books and channel have meant to me. Just sending love your way man. Stay strong my dude.

It’s heartbreaking to watch this. Brian, you’re one in a million brother. As someone who’s life is dedicated towards reading and introducing my passion to others, I can’t imagine what you must be going through. As bleak as the situation appears now, please know that there is a life beyond this. Me and all your followers will always be there for you. You’ve beaten the odds many times before and I’m sure you’re going to end up overcoming this setback and emerge triumphant once again. Much love brother ❤️

Your paintings ARE INCREDIBLE!!! Love your library too I’m crushed to hear about your eyes… at least you caught it early hopefully you’ll have your sight for many more years to come my friend

So sorry. I'm a cancer survivor and understand the helplessness when your body betrays you. You are in my thoughts.

Oh man my brother. You got me back into reading daily and now your dealing with this?! I will read for you brother. I hope it goes as good as it possibly can.

I am so sorry, Brian. Obviously I don’t know if anything I can say will help at all, but I can’t imagine what you are going through right now. You are such an incredible talent in every type of art medium you touch and I can’t tell you how much joy this channel and your reviews have brought me over the past few years. I, along with this entire community, are here for you and are wishing you the absolute best.

I’m so sorry this is happening to you. Especially as a writer and painter it must be devastating. My mother started to go blind when I was 15. It’s crazy to think that she’s now been blind for more of my life than she could see. I will say that there are so many more services available now than there were 20 years ago. Braille availability has improved. And there are library services for blind/visually impaired that may have some of the older books in your collection that Audible may not have. Don’t stop writing! There are screen readers, and excellent talk-to-text technology that they have available. All Apple products are amazing for their accessibility. My mom has a lot of those things. She’s still very independent and does most things (including cooking) for herself. She still sees all the movies because now everything has descriptive audio. Her losing her sight is one of the hardest adjustments we’ve ever had to make. But over time we did adjust. We learned to laugh at things she would get into, and my dad and I had to get way better at giving directions. Don’t hesitate to start taking advantage of the services available, even though you still have vision left. It can make you feel better to know that you’re taking steps now to set up for the future. Surround yourself with good people. And keep telling stories. Your vision may change but you as a person will remain the same. If I’ve learned nothing else from my mom, it’s that even with medical issues you can still have a full and fun life, just with a few modifications.🤗🤗🤗🤗

It is incredibly painful after so many years of reading and dedication and writing that now all of a sudden it's gone. I am truly sorry. However, the challenge now is to try and remain optimistic with what you can do, with what you have. It will take time to get used to it no doubt, but now more than ever are audiobooks much more relevant for not just the handicapped, but even those that struggle in reading itself. (not everyone prefers to read, some prefer to listen) This is a new chapter in your life where hearing will be your main tool going forward, you won't miss out on the stories. They will always be there, to be listened or to be read to you. As well as writing, perhaps you can't write, but you can record your stories verbally. Have them being written, think of it as another style. You would become an excellent storyteller. Keep your chin up, imagination is the key to everything, and all the reading you have done throughout your life has prepared you for this moment, when now your ears will become the medium to your imagination. I know perhaps it's not encouraging enough what I say, but most important is to maintain your optimism. With a little adjustment, you can and will continue to "hear" and "tell" stories. Stay safe brother.

1. Great video 2. Those paintings are amazing 3. Your content is excellent 4. I know you'll continue to do great things 5. I'm looking forward to every new thing you do

That just sucks! As someone who also fell into the small percentage of people who got certain unlikely complications to diseases, I feel your pain. It's so unfair. Thanks so much for giving to the world in all the ways that you have and will.

I'm so sorry. This must be devastating. I lost my health 15 years ago and never got it back. It has changed every aspect of my life. I learned to focus on the things that I CAN do. I recomend Ryan Holladay's audio book on stoicism.: "The obstacle is the way". Stoicism is a good way to navigate the world for people with health challenges. Not sure if you are intetested in this, but there are some great braille word-processors (BrailleSense Polaris) and other tools for the vision impaired. You can still create. You can still write. You can still impact the world with your writing. You are a man who overcomes challenges. You will overcome this. Keep going brother.

hey! I found you on Mike's book reviews. just want to say that I am legally blind and was raised by a totally blind mother along with my 7 brother and sisters. the loss of eyesight is scary, but you don't have to give up all your dreams. there are lots of blind artists and content creators out there. you are not alone and there is great support out there.

DAMN man, I cannot get over how real, how photographic your paintings are. I can't process it. I've dabbled in painting over the years, nothing exciting, but I could never get water down. I avoided water as much as I could. Yours? I could run my fingers thru it. Fn impressive

As a patient of another non-fatal yet uncurable disease, I can definitely relate to those feeling. You are a talented painter and a brilliant writer, I wish all the best for you, and stay strong, in this day and age, who knows how fast the medication may advance, there's always hope.

I am just heartbroken reading this. I know what it's like losing vision in one eye as it has happened to me. But the thought of a wonderful artist like yourself losing his vision devastates me. As a side note, I live just outside Ann Arbor Michigan. It's the home of one of the greatest medical centers in the world. Home also to one of the greatest eye care centers on the planet. Have you considered coming here to be assessed? They saved part on my vision in my right eye. My situation was nor as dire as your but perhaps they could help? I'm with you no matter what. Your posts are enlightening and fun no matter the genre you are discussing. I look forward to your discussions and enthusiasm every evening. We love you Brian.

No words, Brian. So sorry to hear this. Please keep strong.

This news breaks my heart, Brian. You’re such a great guy and don’t deserve this at all. My heart goes out to you.

Wow Brian, that’s awful! Thank you for sharing this with us.

I have had the same injections for a different condition. I too have a disconnect in my vision. It is scary. My only comfort is that the treatment allows me to see at least for now. And yes your paintings of water are good

Sorry to hear Brian... I will keep watching your videos and reading your books as long as you keep putting them out, I'm sure many others in the community will do the same!

“You know that illness is a precious gift that God gives us to make us feel the weakness of our soul by the weakness of our body.” ~Francois Fenelon. I’m going blind, too. I’m 57 and it started a year ago.

I'm really sorry about that man. If theres any way any of us could help somehow, let us know. I'll be praying for you

I saw the updates on Instagram. I’m sorry, Brian. I’ve gone out of my way to get magazines with your art in them or on the cover. I’d love prints. And I enjoy you’re writing, and I hope you continue. We need more old school stuff. Audiobooks aren’t exactly the same, but it is something 😊. I’m reminded of John Milton, one of the greats.

I just discovered your channel and subscribed a day or two ago. I watched 3 or 4 videos and instantly fell in love with you and your style. The right words are impossible to find, but after watching this I stopped immediately and sent out a heart felt prayer to you and for you, Brian. I'm praying and will continuing praying for you, man! 🙏🙏🙏 Thank you and God bless you!

OMG!!! No one deserves this. I’m so sorry, Brian. My eyes are fading fast…and now seem to read books with larger print. I hope that somehow out there science is moving to help you and others. Your spirit is infectious. Your vast knowledge steals many in the right direction. Hugs from across the pond.

Sorry to hear this. You’re still the man, always. Love from all of us

My heart goes out to you, Brian, I've been dealing with an eye issue for years that doctors haven't figured out and its scary not knowing how bad it could/will get. I wish you the best and cant wait for everything yet to come.

You are a great guy Brian! Hang in there. We are all rooting for you to continue to do what you love.

Great paintings! You have many skills.

That was really really sad to hear… I cried in the end of the video. You are such a great person and so artistic.

Both my in-laws are blind and it hasn't stopped them. It will not stop you. It may lead you down a different path but you will ultimately achieve your goals. Stay strong. Walk tall. Conquer all. Love from Canada.

I've been kinda lurking on this channel since I got into Grimdark Fantasy and heard about "The Forgetting Moon". It's probably about 2 years ago by now. I'm still fairly new to booktube. But because of you... I now have plastic slips on all my hardcover books. Also, I have a co-worker that has been reading fantasy since the 80s. He loves David Weber but I never considered giving him a shot... until you did a book review for the Safehold Series. (Which I still watch from time to time) But I'm not touching it until I finish the Five Warrior Angels Series. Damnit, this is terrible news. I know you try to keep it PG-13 on this channel but this is extremely fucked up. I just wanted to say thanks for everything and that we fuckin love you, man. As long as you keep making content. I'll keep watching and supporting. Riding with you until the wheels fall off. Wishing you nothing but the best.

Heartbreaking. 😢 You’re strong and will use your deep well of creativity to craft a life that will uncover even more talents and gifts to continue to bless the world. This is incredibly sad for me and I can’t imagine dealing with such a challenging situation. My heart goes out to you.

Oh man, I'm so sad,i used to have much respect for you but now i am proud! There's a "curse" for every true artist and a heavy cross for every good person and i believe that you will always see with your heart and soul and remain a lighthouse for us..

Was devastated to hear about your health issues yesterday. We are praying that your eyes will recover from this. You are a blessing to this platform and we support you no matter what.

Brian I am truly a fan and am so sorry to hear this news. I am also a stroke survivor for six years. Stay strong dude. We all love you so much.

Day may come when you may not be able to see us, but we see you and will be here to appreciate your amazing talent and passion for all you do. Here's hoping you defy the odds in every regard. much respect.

Hang in there, Durfee. You are truly an inspiration. I can only imagine what it's like to go through what you're faced with. But knowing you, you'll find a way. Thanks for sharing your immense gifts with the world. Wishing you the very best.

I didn't plan on crying today, but here we are! Dude, I wish you the best of luck! Keep doing what makes you happy as long as you can. Who knows, technology is advancing so much that hopefully one day there is something that can help your situation. Godspeed my man.

You are an absolute legend, Brian. I’m so sad to hear this. Stay strong and never lose that spark. Sending very best wishes from the Uk

Oh man, that's hard 💔

Hey man take care of your health, and I do hope things don't deteriorate. You good at everything you do - painting, writing books, reviewing them. Very few I know, if any, that can do all three.

Praying for you Brian. This is truly devastating. Hoping for the Best for you and sending you well wishes.

My entire soul felt like it just left me. My tears and apologies are just not enough. We love you sir and will gladly do whatever we can for you 💔

I am so sorry. This is such sad news. Your paintings are gorgeous. I'm reading your book The Forgetting Moon and it's SO good. You are clearly a man of many talents. Hopefully the surgery will delay the deterioration. All the best to you.

Well, damnit. I hate when the crappy hard things happen to the best people. I am so sorry. Sending you so much love. I trust, that though it may seem impossible right now, you and your generous, creative soul will find a way through. Please don't be shy letting us fans and followers know how we can support you.

Something very similar happened to my mother, but she sent totally blind almost instantly in her left eye, it s. It was also due to high blood pressure. Incredibly sorry this happening to you, your love of reading, and your books as well, have really helped me continue reading more and more.

Shayla called me yesterday and told me the sad news. I am so sorry brian. Please take care and know you are loved. Aunt kevin

After watching your video, I can't say how sorry I am for what is happening, as you are so full of life and have such a passion for all that you do. I'm hoping with medical improvements, as time goes by there will be something that will be developed to prolong your sight. I truly love your writing, adore your paintings, and your channel. My prayers are with you.

You are a strong man with incredible talents and compassion, and while its cruel that life is taking this away from you. You live in an age were technology can do the heavy lifting for you for some things. We're still here. Computer adaptations for the blind are getting better all the time, audio books are a great option, Braille is worth considering if you want to the solitude and quiet reading experience back. I sympathise greatly, and I hope you keep writing, even if you have to use audio dictation. Don't lose hope, and thank you for sharing.

I am so so sorry that this has happened to you. I’d never heard of this condition but it sounds truly awful. Know that so many people out here are rooting for you.

Brian I can't thank you enough for your videos and your great books. I have become a big fan of both and can't wait until the third book comes out. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and here is hoping modern medicine can help you to continue with your journey as an author. Your books are fantastic and quickly became one of my very favourite series of all time. My heart goes out to you my friend and nothing but best wishes.

I'm so sorry you have this eye problem. It must have been so scary first finding out. You're a very funny, warm and outstanding personality and seeing how strong you handle this gives me strength in my life struggles. God bless you man. You're a wonderful person. The artistic accomplishments you've made are truly outstanding. I'll be searching out your magic the gathering cards and artwork.

Feels weird to “like” this video when it’s about something serious like a health issue, but your honesty, vulnerability and strength are commendable, Brian. Sending some goodwill to the universe for you. For what it’s worth, if for some reason you can’t find a book on Audible you’re looking for (if Reading becomes too painful for you) I’d gladly record a version for you. Not a professional mind you, but my voice isn’t too bad and it’s the least I could do for all the hours of entrainment and knowledge you have provided to me over the past couple of years. Hope it doesn’t get to that point though.

Sucks to hear this is happening to you Brian. We love you, And I hope there is a work-around for this soon. We read the fantastical, and should never stop believing in miracles. If anyone deserves one, it is you.

I am so sorry to hear this, Brian. You are super talented! I hope you can continue reading and writing for years! Big hug from Argentina.

This is heartbreaking news, Brian, and I am so sorry you have to go through this. My words are too feeble to help you, but I hope you know that you can and will get through this. You are stronger than you know. If possible ask a friend or loved one to come with you for the doctor appointments, it can be useful to have someone to help with the many questions and challenges ahead. Thousands of.people like myself watch your reviews daily, and look forward to them. You make a difference to all of us. Enjoy your days as much as you can.

Ho crap! I am SO sorry to hear about your eyes and health challenges!!! I'm glad you got the blood pressure corrected and are still with us! I had no idea you had been a painter. Such beautiful work. I don't know what to say other than we all want the best for you. Hang in there.

Brian - I only discovered your video posts a few months ago, and your boundless heart and character shine. This news you bring -- the way you explain the situation -- it's devastating. But many things in the way you handle yourself indicate a strength and dedication to perseverance that not only many people lack, but which many people can see in you and which helps them. For a while in the 1990s I was very ill, and my dad took my hand and said, "Never give up, pal." What you do here, and in the future, I think, will reflect that spark and strength. We love ya here, and will always be ready to lift you if you ever need it.

This is so heart breaking! My mom also has this eye disease and she stopped embroidery because of this. I absolutely feel your struggles. Please don’t let this deter your passion and love for art, creativity and imagination. I learned so much from your channel and appreciate all the knowledge and joy you gave us. Wish you all the best!

I wish I could give a a huge hug right now! As an artist myself I can completely understand your heartbreaking decision to stop creating art. As an accomplished artist and author I want to thank you for sharing your passion with is. Please keep us updated on your progress. Please take it easy as much as you can . ❤

This video made me cry! I have no words to describe how bad I feel for you. I watch all your videos, and I am about to start reading your books, I've been a long time fan and I think we both love books in the same way and I would be devastated if something happened to my vision. I hope the medication works and everything turns out okay for you. Wishing you the best Mr. Durfee!!!

I saw your Instagram posts. I'm so so sorry. I can't imagine what it took to post this video. Your paintings are so beautiful. I just finished the first two books in The Five Warrior Angels series, really enjoyed reading them and am looking forward to reading Book 3. And I watch your channel reviews, book collection videos and list videos for recommendations. I will be praying earnestly that the process slows to the maximum extent so that you can continue doing what you love. Sending heartfelt thoughts and prayers despite knowing how empty these words might feel. Please take care. All your readers and viewers are with you.

Brian, I came across your channel about two months ago. I've been hooked since. You have been singularly responsible for getting me back into reading - both classics and fantasy. I am purchasing books again. Many of them. Yours included. Fiction has returned to my life and it is thanks to you... I am gutted by this news. My heart hurts. However, you are an incredibly talented and clever man. If anyone can figure out a way to continue being productive and creative, I know it is you. I am confident you will find a way. I look forward to your future videos and writing. I eagerly await them all... You are inspirational. I thank you for your efforts. Sending love and thinking of you. Eddie

😟💔 I'm sorry you are going through this . I'll keep you in my prayers

I feel for you and you are in my thoughts during this tough time. Amazing paintings as well. Im praying our amazing Doctors find a cure soon.

I am so sorry about this. Your books and reviews have kept my love of reading strong. Your positive impact is felt by many. I wish you the best.

Man this is heartbreaking. Im so sorry to hear this. We love you Durfee and I look forward to reading your books!!

You're a legend, sir. I read the first few chapters of The Forgetting Moon and I was so excited to add it to my TBR list. I don't have any money to buy one of your amazing paintings but I just bought both your books from my local book retailer. Thank you for blessing this world with everything you contribute, your energy and passion always warms my heart. I wish you nothing but love and strength through this horrible event.

Brian- I am so saddened to hear of your tragic diagnosis. I hope you are able to continue living how YOU want to for as long as possible. Live long and prosper, my friend.

Brian, I’m so glad I stumbled on your channel. You are such a brilliantly talented and creative soul. I wasn’t surprised when watching booktubers review your novels - EVERY ONE of them had to mention what a kind a generous person you are. Just ordered “The Forgetting Moon,” can’t wait to dive in! You are loved and appreciated! ❤

Brian your book reviews helped re spark my love for reading last year. As somebody who’s childhood love for literature faded as I went on through life, I cannot thank you enough for the love and passion of reading that you put into this channel, It is truly contagious. My heart goes out to you and I wish you the absolute best in the months and years to come, we love you Brian. Thank you.

Mr. Durfee, I only started watching your videos a few months ago but I watch most of them at this point. I haven't read your books yet, I've been saving them for when I'm done with Abercrombie, Jordan, and Stormlight (but before Ice & Fire) but I really respect and admire everything you've done and I really generally like you. I'm sorry this is happening. You deserve better and I want better for you. But I hope you never lose your happiness. You're really distantly radiant, in a funny way. I wish you the best

Brian, I'm so sorry for what's happening to you. I can't imagine life without being able to read, and I'm sorry that you already had to give up one passion due to the condition. You have my sympathies. I hope the surgeries and the treatments help slow this as much as possible for you. 🙏

Durfee, I’ve been around your channel for awhile and so I’ve seen videos where you’ve shown your artwork. I was absolutely blown away by how talented you are! I came to admire the hell out of you because of how much and how widely you read but then seeing your artwork and knowing you are a writer as well….damn, you are truly someone to admire. A truly talented person! I can’t even imagine what you are going through. 😪

Brian I am so so sorry you're going through this. I will pray for you, even if you ask me not to, I care about you. Your enthusiasm, your love for fantasy and for books are just contagious. I've been looking forward to your books ever since I found out about them and your channel. I hope you'll get to finish them, but if you can't i'll still watch your videos. You can still do them with audiobooks, and I'll be waiting no matter how long it takes. You are a gem. I have diabetes and losing sight is a real possibility. I hope you keep going, no matter what happens. I'll be here to cheer you on.

I’m so sorry to hear this. I hope and pray that the disease spreads extremely slowly so you can continue to read and enjoy life as you do. Your paintings are beautiful and I wish you the best of luck in everything.

My heart breaks for you Brian. You are an insanely talented artist. My thoughts are with you!

Sorry to hear this, Brian. Hopefully this disease will stabilize with surgery and medication. My thought are with you!!

I am so so sorry, Brian! I feel for you. I saw the vid title and was hoping it was one of your jokes. I pray and hope for complete healing somehow, but at the very least that you will be able to enjoy your love of reading well into old age. Regardless, hang in there and know that you are loved and appreciated.

This is heartbreaking news Brian, you are so talented and have such an obvious love for reading books physically. I do hope that if the worst does happen, you can dictate your narrative and write that way. I love your fantasy series, and would love to read more of anything you create.

I'll be wishing that you get to keep your sight as long as possible! Best of luck with your writing and I hope you get to continue to enjoy reading through the audiobooks you are collecting!

Brian, I am shattered by your story. As a fellow writer and artist, I can only imagine the heartbreak and confusion, and while I won't say everything will be ok (sounds kinda trite), I am certain your imagination and will to create will stay strong... and your ability to do so -- although potentially altered -- will stay viable. And always remember that time has ways of working things out via channels we never knew (or that did not exist when our journeys began) if we only stay open to them. We are pulling for you. We care about you. Always wishing you the best.

Brian- I am so sorry. I found your channel when you had only a few hundred subs and was immediately absorbed into your clear passion for reading and hyping up other authors. You never fail to hype me up to check out a new author and as someone who is working on writing and learning the craft, you are the reason I want to write. You have brought so much joy to the world and although you don't personally know many of us, your willingness to open up to us has let us know you. We will all be praying for you and I fully believe you can be healed. Love you man.

I just started following you not too long ago and read both books. I’m sorry man! This video really got to me. I couldn’t even begin to understand losing a hobby I love due to a medical condition. Thinking about you bud!