Many parents of children who are blind end up becoming teachers of the visually impaired (TVIs) or orientation and mobility specialists. As our children grow, we acquire greater insight into the complexity of their needs, and become intrigued by the work of their experts. I became a TVI when Eddie was six years old and … Continued
Earlier this summer, I was invited back to the Montana School for the Deaf and Blind (MSDB). All of our children were born in Montana. It was the state where we learned how to parent, how to love unconditionally, and how to raise a child who is blind. Our first trip to MSDB happened when … Continued
If you’re the parent of a child with special needs, you’ve likely heard the statement “You look tired” many times. Maybe it’s at the end of the work day, or perhaps right when you walk through the door. Although you may have received the best night of sleep in weeks, you still can come across … Continued
I was recently thinking about the variety of professionals that worked with Eddie over the years. Being an educator myself and reflecting on my own work, I was trying to remember what made some people stand out more than others. My conclusion was that those who had confidence in their decisions, optimism for Eddie, and … Continued
When Eddie was first diagnosed with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia and given the label "blind," it was something we could grasp. We didn’t know what his future would be like or what additional needs he’d have, but we knew that the word "blind" was now part of his identity. It seemed easily explained and a "go-to" … Continued
James and I recently celebrated our 16th wedding anniversary, and my sister shared this photo of us smiling widely from the back of a limo. I look at that young couple and the life they envisioned in their mind… and laugh at how far it drifted from their original course. We were so young and … Continued
Eddie wakes up everyday asking what is going to happen next. He likes a schedule, prefers to stick to it, and adding something new can make him uneasy. Children who are blind can be unsure about new experiences. Being unable to predict what will be expected and unsure if they will be successful can be … Continued
Eddie is participating in middle school band this year. As a sixth grader, it’s the year they are learning musical instruments, and this matches his skill level. He is able to play the melody of most tunes on the piano by ear and spends much of his free time tinkering. We knew integrating him into … Continued
We know friendships build self-esteem and offer a sense of belonging that can be hard to find. There are actually additional benefits that we cannot ignore for our kids who are blind and may have additional disabilities. I know it’s hard to imagine, but their relationships with kids may also be the key to employment. … Continued
Yep, I know it’s hard to believe, but the season for gifts is quickly approaching. Every year, we struggle with what to get Eddie for the holidays and so does everyone else. It’s hard to find the perfect gift, but by reflecting on some "winners," I’m hoping it will help with the selection process this … Continued