[nfb-db] Definition of Deafblind? was new person

[Sammons, Elizabeth]

Hi, Janice,

Regarding your questions, please send your email and I will contact you off list.
Apologies to others who read this, since I have to reply to all here.

Sincerely,
Elizabeth

-----Original Message-----
From: nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org [mailto:nfb-db-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Janice Toothman
Sent: Thursday, July 12, 2012 4:49 PM
To: NFB Deaf-Blind Division Mailing List
Subject: Re: [nfb-db] Definition of Deafblind? was new person

Hi Elizabeth,
Welcome,thanks for sharing your thoughts. When did you lose your sight
and hearing?

  It is true that the deaf-blind (DB) person is most aware of the
struggles, challenges and emotions that characterize the life
experiences of a person with DB.  I struggle to accept myself.  On a
daily basis, I am problem solving tasks, making accommodations or
adapting in order to deal with my DB. At the same time, I still have my
desire to work as a therapist/counselor helping disabled individual
solve their problems.

Before DB, I had sung in the church choir as a soprano. I enjoyed going
to classical music concerts. I visited art museums. Now I see my life as
bleak in a colorless landscape. I will be expected to make judgments
about my clients nonverbal behavior; but touch it usually not permitted.
Because I recently become DB and  can speak, people often don't perceive
me as DB even when they see my guide dog and my dark glasses. I an
frustrated that I have to constantly admit to people "i am DB" and "I
need your assistance". I feel I have to constantly be exposed. It
doesn't get any easier the more I do it. This is where advocacy can help
by making society aware of DB people because right now we are an
invisible minority in society.
Janice

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