This is Erik Chalhoub, and I’m feeling inspired after reading Pam Marino’s article in this week’s Weekly.
Marino focuses on the life of Carmel resident Carmella Cantisani, a championship skier, food entrepreneur, language teacher and author who didn’t let blindness stop her from enjoying life.
Kantisani was born with retinitis pigmentosa, a condition that destroys the retina over time. She told Marino she learned to get on with life just like everyone else.
“Either way, we have to make do with what we have,” she said.
Cantisani didn’t just “get by,” she thrived: As a skier, she won three gold medals at the 1986 World Para Winter Championships with Team USA, then won two bronze medals with Italy at the 1988 Winter Paralympics.
Marino’s story is an expanded version of what appears in the 2024-2025 Living Well magazine, a resource guide created by the Monterey County Area Agency on Aging and Monterey County Weekly.
In this guide, you will learn about the wealth of resources available to seniors and people with disabilities in Monterey County, from housing and financial assistance to social engagement opportunities and supportive services.
In addition to Cantisani’s article, there are other articles highlighting the important work being done by seniors and people with disabilities throughout the county. The magazine is available at the AAA office (730 La Guardia St. in Salinas), local senior nonprofits, community centers and care centers. It can also be picked up at the Weekly office at 668 Williams Ave. in Seaside or checked out online.
If you or someone you know needs help, I encourage you to flip through the pages – maybe you’ll find a place to turn here, or if you just need inspiration, you’ll definitely find it here.