[Home-on-the-range] Jenny earns her Freedom Bell!

[Dianne Hemphill]

Hello federation family - it was my pleasure to be one of those attending Jenny Callahan's graduation ceremony at the Colorado Center for the Blind, Littleton, CO, Friday, January 15th. I met Jenny about a year ago when she joined an art class that I was in. She had just recently gone blind and we talked about her options. Jenny chose to move forward with her life and plans by choosing  to gain some useful and liberating skills and attitudes through "structured discovery learning" provided at the CCB. This was not an easy decision nor was it easy to get the Kansas VR system to provide this needed opportunity ... it  should never be this difficult to have VR help the blind gain appropriate training...

Jenny, I'm very proud of you and that you earned your "freedom bell". Your dinner was delicious! Preparing a full meal for 60 might be over whelming if you hadn't gained the skills and empowerment during your training months. Not only that, the budget is a little humbling - only $175.  None- the-less, your creativity brought forth an amazing chicken cor don blu casserole  (very misspelled, I'm sure), roasted fresh brussls sproutes and your Grandma's special brownies as well as  home made bread - 

Following the eating  of this scrumptious meal, a special time of sharing came from the students, instructors, and family and friends. It is clear that your transformation was profound and inspiring to all. 
Some of you will see Jenny during the up coming Washington Seminar... please give her your warmest congratulations...I know her future will be special and she will live the life she wants. Dianne