Documentary featuring Dagbjört Andrésdóttir highlights journey with cortical visual impairment in Reykjavík

A documentary featuring Dagbjört Andrésdóttir premiered today, highlighting her journey with cortical visual impairment (CVI), a condition diagnosed only when she was 26 years old. She emphasizes that her struggles are not a result of laziness or stupidity, but rather a neurological condition that many remain unaware of.

CVI affects the brain’s ability to process visual information, impacting upwards of one in thirty individuals, many of whom may be undiagnosed. This condition has often been confused with ADHD, dyslexia, and autism, leading to misconceptions about those affected, who may be wrongly perceived as clumsy or lazy. For Dagbjört, the most significant challenge is the complete absence of her lower visual field. She explains that her perspective forces her to look down at her feet while walking, a stark contrast to how most people navigate their surroundings.

Dr. Gordon Dutton, a leading expert in CVI, notes that the condition results in a different way of perception, sometimes described as tunnel vision. He asserts that the brain, not the eyes, is responsible for vision, with about 40% of brain activity dedicated to processing images.

Reflecting on her diagnosis, Dagbjört describes the relief it brought, likening it to a wall being lifted from her. She stresses that this condition is common and emphasizes the importance of understanding it correctly. The documentary, titled “Acting Normal With CVI,” will be available for viewing on October 14 at Bíó Paradís.