Meet Brian – One Traveler’s Journey with Amtrak and Be My Eyes

Brian, a blind comedian and podcaster from New York, lost his vision later in life due to retinitis pigmentosa, a condition that gradually causes blindness. After an initial period of adjustment, he found new confidence through technology, especially Be My Eyes Volunteers and Service Directory.

When Brian planned a recent trip to Washington D.C., he knew it would be his first time navigating Amtrak’s Union Station independently. Like many travelers, Brian wanted a smooth, stress-free experience. But as someone who is blind, that meant finding the right tools to make the journey accessible.

That’s where Be My Eyes Service Directory came in.

Thanks to the new partnership between Be My Eyes and Amtrak, travelers can now connect directly with Amtrak’s agents through the Be My Eyes Service Directory. With just a tap in the app, Brian was instantly connected to an Amtrak representative who guided him step-by-step to the station’s front door and helped him meet a red cap for further assistance.

“It was a very, very smooth experience,” Brian shared. “Having that direct connection through Be My Eyes made the whole process seamless.”

From finding the right train platform to getting guidance replacing a train ticket, Brian has used Be My Eyes in countless travel situations. But what stands out most to him is the platform’s evolution, how it continues to expand beyond volunteer calls, introducing AI assistance and now, direct access to Amtrak’s accessibility team through the Service Directory.

“It’s hard enough these days to even find a company phone number,” Brian joked. “The Service Directory makes life so much easier.”

Beyond his travel story, Brian wants other blind and low-vision individuals to embrace assistive technology without hesitation or shame.

“You’re not weak for asking for help,” he said. “You’re being efficient. The more tools you have in your toolkit, the better off you’ll be.”

He encourages everyone to try out the resources available, whether that’s Be My Eyes, Be My AI, or other accessibility tools, to make daily life easier and more empowering.

“Sometimes it’s just about changing your mindset. These tools exist to make things simpler. Use them.”