[Lpobc] Great Post from Stephanie Martin

[Eric Guillory]

Stephanie wrote this Facebook post as part of the Federation's #WhyImaFederationist social media campaign. It is a fantastic encapsulation of the interconnectedness and critical importance of the work we do in the National Federation of the Blind, at the Louisiana Center for the Blind, and at the Institute on Blindness at Louisiana Tech University. Thank you, Stephanie, for this candid and meaningful testimonial.


Stephanie Martin

Growing up everything I did focused on the little vision I had left, even if it wasn't reliable. I got good at faking it and trying to get by, not wanting to admit I couldn't see something. Though I did have high expectations they were based on my remaining vision and not based on alternative techniques. It was not until college when I got involved with the National Federation of the Blind in Louisiana, did I truly understand that I should not have to fake it and that blindness was not something to be ashamed of. I first got involved through the scholarship program and though it took me a couple state conventions, I knew this was the organization for me. The NFB changed my outlook on many things, but particularly the use of Braille and a cane. After graduating from undergrad I decided to attend La Tech's MAT program to teach blind students and then went on to receive my NOMC. Since graduating, I find joy in teaching blind students the skills and techniques they need to be successful whether that be Braille, cane travel, or any other nonvisual skill. I cannot thank the NFB enough for changing my philosophy on blindness and of myself, and for being a family who continues to help me be the best teacher I can be for my students.
#WhyImaFederationist



Eric Guillory, Director of Youth Services
Louisiana Center for the Blind
101 South Trenton Street
Ruston, LA 71270
Voice: 800-234-4166
Fax: 318-251-0109
Twitter: ericguillory
Skype: brllovingdad
www.louisianacenter.org<http://www.louisianacenter.org/>

"Together, we are changing what it means to be blind."

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