Jim Tess began his career at Beyond Vision earlier this year as a Call Center Customer Service Representative.  His journey to our organization began almost 13 years ago.  He had not been able to work since May of 2000.   During that time period, Jim and his family courageously battled his serious health issues as a result of Type 1 diabetes.  He had to deal with several eye surgeries, the progressive loss of his sight, dialysis, and eventually a kidney transplant.  At one point, doctors told him he may only live two more months.

After his transplant in 2005, Jim began his road to recovery.  As his health improved, so did the possibility of getting back into the workplace.  Prior to his vision loss, Jim had managed several Pizza Hut stores.  He worked with other local agencies to emotionally and functionally adjust to his vision loss.  Jim was determined to get back to work.  That determination led him to Beyond Vision.

“Working at Beyond Vision has been awesome!” says Jim.  “It has given me purpose in life.  My son looks at me differently than he did before.  For nearly 13 years, I lived in isolation.”

Jim is not isolated any more.  His primary function in the Call Center is to support the programs we have with Harley-Davidson.  He connects with hundreds of Harley-Davidson owners every week.  Before his vision loss, Jim rode motorcycles and shares the passion of the people he talks with.  “It is great talking with so many passionate riders.  It brings back memories of the great times I had riding.”

In a short amount of time, Jim has become a tremendous producer in the call center.  He quickly earned the appreciation and respect of Beyond Vision leaders, his colleagues and our customers.  We are fortunate to have such a valuable employee who embodies our mission.