Fixing My Gaze

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A revelatory account of the brain's capacity for change unfolds through the experiences of neuroscientist Susan Barry, who, at fifty, finally perceived the world in three dimensions. After a lifetime of being cross-eyed and stereoblind, she witnessed Manhattan's skyscrapers looming like giant ships and tree branches extending into space, revealing a vibrant 3D landscape. This transformation was not only personal but also significant for neuroscience, challenging the long-held belief that the brain's malleability is limited to early childhood. Traditionally, it was thought that Barry's brain had organized itself as a baby to avoid double vision, making adult rewiring impossible. However, after finding an optometrist who introduced her to an unconventional vision therapy program, Barry underwent intensive training that led to a remarkable breakthrough. Her journey, celebrated by neurologist Oliver Sacks as "Stereo Sue," highlights the incredible adaptability of the human brain and the profound joy that comes from fully engaging with our senses. Through her story, Barry illuminates the potential for change and the extraordinary capabilities of the brain, inspiring readers to reconsider the limits of perception and the power of rehabilitation.