[Massachusetts-NFB] Member to Member Getting to Know Each Other

[Bronwen Tedesco]

Welcome to this edition of Member to Member! Today, we will get to know Margaret O’Donnell, member of the Springfield chapter.

Margaret was born and raised in Springfield, Massachusetts, growing up with her parents, two brothers and three sisters. She was born with Albinism and her sight has always stayed the same. She was first aware of her blindness when she learned that others could see better than her. Throughout grade school, she attended Catholic school. She was never taught how to use a cane or read braille, but did receive large print books from National Library Service (NLS). After graduating from high school, she went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in elementary from American International College, a college located in Springfield. Later on, she received a certificate in advanced degree studies from Springfield. Margaret taught kindergarten for thirty years, retiring from teaching when she was sixty. Once she retired from teaching, she became the director of Valley Eye Radio, formerly known as Valley Radio Reading Service. Ten years later, she retired.

Margaret learned about the NFB through various volunteers and listeners of Valley Eye Radio. Not only was she motivated by issues that blind people face, but where change can be made locally, as well. She is currently on the board of the Springfield chapter. When asked if she had any advice for anyone who has recently lost their sight or joined the NFB, she said, “Don’t be in a hurry to change things. At first it seems awful, like it’s never gonna be ok, but it’s not always gonna be like that.”

Margaret currently lives in Springfield and enjoys crocheting, being a Lion in the Lions Club, and spending time with her grandchildren. She spends winters in Charlotte, North Carolina with some of them then the rest of the year in Springfield with the rest of her grandchildren, and loves to stay busy. When she was talking about staying busy, she said, “I don’t like to stay home and do nothing. I am always out doing something but no matter what, I’ll always call you back.” It has been great getting to know you, Margaret! Stay tuned for the next edition of Member to Member!

Hope everyone has a great week!

Sincerely,
Bronwen