We All Need Support

Hello, everyone. Once again, it is time for me to write the Blindness Blog, and as I do so, I hope to shed light on how the blind can use alternative techniques to perform tasks. In order to use these alternative techniques, however, one must be in an environment that allows and encourages one to use them, and one also must be surrounded by others who use them on a regular basis.
Today’s blog will be shorter, but I feel it is very important for me to point out that joining a group in which successful and independent blind people are likely to be present is essential for a beginning user of alternative techniques. In fact, no matter the skill level of the blind individual, being involved in a group of blind people allows us to share our frustrations and to give back to the community. On this blog, I often mention the American Council of the Blind and the National Federation of the Blind. In both organizations, blind role models can be found. Another way to be around blind people and to give back to the community is by joining your local Lion’s Club. I had never been to such a meeting, though I had often heard about how the organization provided glasses to those who needed them. Recently, I met a lady who attended, and thus invited, me to one of the meetings. It was a fun experience for me, and I plan to continue attending the meetings. The group was very active, and I learned that the Lion’s Club does a lot more than just to provide glasses. Also, I found that, in this organization, I could contribute in a way that suited my preferences. For example, they collect a new, unwrapped toy to give to Toys for Happiness, and I am able to donate a toy. In addition, there is an email list in which news about the well-being of members and other news about what the Lion’s Club is doing is shared. Our group has asked to learn Braille this summer. I also understand that many other events take place. This summer, a trip to Leader Dog is planned for our group.
My point here is that if you are blind, find a group in which blind people are likely to show up. Having support from those who are facing the same joys and trials as we are can go a long ways toward helping us build confidence and overcoming the stress that one may face as a result of blindness.
Hello, everyone. Once again, it is time for me to write the Blindness Blog, and as I do so, I hope to shed light on how the blind can use alternative techniques to perform tasks. In order to use these alternative techniques, however, one must be in an environment that allows and encourages one to use them, and one also must be surrounded by others who use them on a regular basis.
Today’s blog will be shorter, but I feel it is very important for me to point out that joining a group in which successful and independent blind people are likely to be present is essential for a beginning user of alternative techniques. In fact, no matter the skill level of the blind individual, being involved in a group of blind people allows us to share our frustrations and to give back to the community. On this blog, I often mention the American Council of the Blind and the National Federation of the Blind. In both organizations, blind role models can be found. Another way to be around blind people and to give back to the community is by joining your local Lion’s Club. I had never been to such a meeting, though I had often heard about how the organization provided glasses to those who needed them. Recently, I met a lady who attended, and thus invited, me to one of the meetings. It was a fun experience for me, and I plan to continue attending the meetings. The group was very active, and I learned that the Lion’s Club does a lot more than just to provide glasses. Also, I found that, in this organization, I could contribute in a way that suited my preferences. For example, they collect a new, unwrapped toy to give to Toys for Happiness, and I am able to donate a toy. In addition, there is an email list in which news about the well-being of members and other news about what the Lion’s Club is doing is shared. Our group has asked to learn Braille this summer. I also understand that many other events take place. This summer, a trip to Leader Dog is planned for our group.
My point here is that if you are blind, find a group in which blind people are likely to show up. Having support from those who are facing the same joys and trials as we are can go a long ways toward helping us build confidence and overcoming the stress that one may face as a result of blindness.