T1D here too, echoing your sentiments. It's a terrifying reality to face. Perhaps foolish to say but I think I'd rather lose all of my limbs (another fun possibility for diabetics) before I lose my vision. Huge respect to the author.
I pretty much have accepted that even if I do all the sensible things I might still end up in a wheelchair but the thought of losing my sight is still far more terrifying.
There's some evidence excessive alcohol consumption is associated with higher-than-normal incidences of diabetic retinopathy, though I've read studies that say there's no effect if alcohol consumption is moderate. Some studies say cannabis has a preventive effect.
I can't vouch for either of these either way (i.e. do your own research):
But I've heard of people keeping an even closer watch than typical. Continuous monitoring and pump to try to keep the glucose levels very even - the way they are for a non-diabetic.
Also some people try to keep glucose levels somewhat lower than recommended under the assumption that the spikes cause harm, so starting with a lower baseline is better. (Of course don't overdo it.)
Even if you don't believe this, just give it a try for a month along with your regular monitoring and insulin intake.
And a lot of angry arguments and shouting too from people with various levels of expertise.
I know almost nothing on the topic, but my guess is that the key is to have a stable and low intake of slow carbohydrates, avoid fast carbohydrates, but most importantly - you should actually like the food so that you can stick to the diet.