[nagdu] Helping the blind

[Ginger Kutsch]

Source:
www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/letters/print/chi-0520vplette
rsbriefs3may20,0,2080225.story
 
chicagotribune.com
Helping the blind
May 20, 2009
 
 
 
Helping the blind
 
This is in response to "One burning question" (Magazine, May 3),
which asked, "Recently, I saw a blind man about to walk into
heavy traffic on Madison Street. I put my hand on his arm, to
help guide him back to the curb, but he jerked away from me and
snarled, 'Get your hand off!' Is it unreasonable for me to feel
angry about this?" 
 
One responsibility of we who are blind is to help others
understand what is helpful to us and what is not. Ideally this
give-and-take occurs calmly. But stress and chaos strain mutual
respect. 
 
Any kind soul who wades into traffic to assist a blind person
deserves gratitude and is entitled to feel confused and angry if
rebuffed.
 
I have been startled by people grabbing my elbow at intersections
and, with a "light's green . . . let's go," propelling me into
the street. Though their motive is well-intentioned, I feel
fearful and vulnerable. 
 
If you doubt the stress of blindness, close your eyes and have
someone, even someone you trust, push or pull you around the
block. 
 
My suggestion to potential sighted helpers? Get the attention of
the blind person verbally rather than physically, explain the
perceived danger and offer assistance. Many sighted pedestrians
have helped me a great deal and I try to respond considerately to
their show of consideration. 
 
No one is helped if I say, "If you don't stop distracting my
guide dog, I'm going to punch your homely face."
 
We can all remain civil. 
 
It's a shame the Tribune wasted an opportunity to educate its
readers and dispel stereotypes about the blind. Instead,
suggesting that the helper bite the blind man's ankle and shout
"Rabid dog!" reveals ignorance, hostility and the boorishness to
delight in taking the cheap shot. 
 
I hope this incident will open a dialogue that will benefit Trib
readers and we who ask for fairness and understanding.
 
 
 

-- Jeff Flodin, Chicago