[Ohio-Talk] Story's about Why I Am A Federationist

[Richard Payne]

Why I Am A Federationist
How has the NFB helped you or changed your life? The following comes from
members across the entire organization of the National Federation of the
Blind, and not just from the Illinois affiliate.
Karen Anderson:
I came to the Federation as a high school senior looking for free money. I
was pretty sure I knew all about "those people," they were crazy, radicle,
all about independence, and I wanted nothing to do with them. But, I decided
that applying for the scholarship couldn't hurt, and when I was offered one
it seemed silly to turn down a chance at free money and a weekend in a
hotel. When my friend, who also happened to be a member of the scholarship
committee, told me that she thought I should run for secretary of the
student division, I was more than a little hesitant. But, since I wanted the
free money, I decided to try to impress her by agreeing to run for office.
Much to my shock, I won the election, which meant I was now committed, at
least for a year. The next year I attended a student leadership seminar in
Baltimore, traveled to my first national convention, and participated in
Youth Slam. I began to realize that I was surrounded, not by the crazy
people I had expected, but by an entire group of people who believed in me.
They saw potential in me that I never would have imagined, and with their
encouragement I began doing things I never dreamed were possible.
I have not always lived up to the high expectations my friends in the
Federation set for me, but I have never felt shunned or rejected. During a
time in my life when I felt like I was severely failing at pretty much
everything, my friends in the Federation gave me the wake-up call I badly
needed, and then helped me obtain the blindness skills that would allow me
to be successful. Even on the hard days I knew they loved me, and that I had
a whole organization cheering me on.
I have been a member of the federation for more than ten years now, and it
has helped shape me into the confident blind woman I am. Because of the
connections I have made, I am employed, and spend my days sharing the
encouragement and lessons in confidence I have received with other blind
people. My hope is that they realize their potential and live the lives they
want.
Once in a while I run to catch a light rail and I am still surprised and
thankful for my confident travel skills.
Patti Gregory-Chang:
I love being a part of an organization that continues to push me to be the
best that I can be. I am a longtime member of the national Federation of the
blind because my NFB friends have high expectations for me. This is
especially appreciated as my residual vision disappears and I need good
mobility training.
Deja Powell:
Because I knew I had sparkling potential, but no one showed me how to shine.
Rachel Olivero:
As a child I was blessed with family that always encouraged me. There was
never an outward hint of, "we have no idea how you can do that as a blind
person." Who knows what they were actually thinking, but the message was
that of positivity and encouragement. Fortunately, as a general rule I
embraced that philosophy. What I wasn't always sure of was the actual how of
doing certain things without sight.
In 2001, I was invited by then National Federation of the blind of Wisconsin
president Mark Riccobono to attend the national convention in Philadelphia.
This would be the first time I would travel without family or a school
chaperone. My new federation friends assured me that they had it all under
control and there would be no issues. In fact, they had it so under control
that Mr. Riccobono challenged me to change planes, at O'Hare airport,
wearing sleep shades. At this time in my life, I was still referring to
myself as, "visually impaired," so it was a bit of a step out of my comfort
zone to try this. Nevertheless, with a small amount of trepidation, I took
the proffered sleep shades and off we went. Sixteen years later, I don't
recall the details of the experience, except to say we successfully evaded
an attempt to place us in the "holding area for people like you". No cart
for us, thank you very much. We walked. On our own. News flash: No one died.
The experience was a positive one and left me feeling empowered. That
feeling continued, and grew, throughout the week as I met, and was
frequently put to work by, blind students, computer science professionals,
teachers, parents, and every other label imaginable. No matter the
differences, the one thing they all had in common was their blindness, and
their unending confidence that blindness was a characteristic, not a
limitation. I left that week in Philadelphia knowing that this organization
was something I wanted to be a part of. That convention gave me the
knowledge that there were other blind people that would be there if I ever
needed suggestions or support.
I'm lucky, and thankful, that blindness hasn't caused a lot of resistance in
my life. From the support of family during my early years, to the
encouragement of friends, to the emergency management director who I never
saw blink an eye when I said, "I want to take the CERT class. You can teach
me to get people out from under a collapsed wall too, right?" to all those
who supported my gender transition. I've generally never felt that I
couldn't do something as a blind person. However, it's the love, hope, and
determination of my family in the National Federation of the Blind, that has
given me the extra strength and answered the, 'but how do I..." And that is
why I'm a Federationist.
Penny Duffy:
Because I got one of the most important things all parents need. HOPE for my
daughter's future!
Katelyn MacIntyre:
Because of the NFB and the NFB Performing Arts Division, I am empowered to
reach my full potential! Blindness does not hold me back!
Maurice Peret:
To change the world we live in, one blind corner at a time. When we
transform ourselves, we change the world. So that the blind may read, travel
safely, vote privately & independently, and compete 4 jobs on terms of
equality is why I'm a Federationist.
Teresa Graham:
Watching my daughter know she can do whatever she desires in life. Her blind
mentors lead the way!
Milton Ota:
That NFB has brought many new friends into my life.
Justin Salisbury:
I once tried to function like I was still sighted. I struggled. The NFB
taught me that it is respectable to be blind.
Jeannie Massay:
The NFB confirmed my own belief that blindness is not what defines me or my
future, happiness or success in life.
Johna:
The NFB supported me and gave me the tools I needed for success in college!
Also, it helped me find my passion in law.
Mark Riccobono:
When I can help a blind sister facing really awful discrimination, and
hearing the powerful stories of other blind people like my friend Pam Allen.
Amy Mason:
I'm surrounded by brilliant people who know that I and other blind folks can
be experts in our chosen fields. Both literally, and figuratively, I can
count members as family.
I have a tremendous sweet tooth. Cookies, cake, pie, ice cream, you name
it... if it contains enough sugar, I'm going to at least try it. At some
point during my high school years, a teacher put a set of sleep shades on
me, and taught me to bake a cake. Subsequent kitchen adventures have yielded
equally delightful results. I love books. When I was growing up I would sit
curled for hours over novels. They carried me to all new realities. I rode
upon Aslan's back with the Pevensies. I followed the Little Women on their
Pilgrim's Progress. I loved Black Beauty and Kaavik the Wolf-Dog for their
loyalty to people, even when we didn't always deserve it, and I learned that
the funniest books have three chapter 19's. Books were some of my best
friends. When one night, I couldn't force my eyes to focus... I wasn't
terrified that I had lost them. I was very upset, but my summer camp
counselors (and their rowdy, awesome college friends, who let us hang out
with them!!!) all read Braille. They left me believing that this was the
obvious and logical choice for me too, so even though it was hard at first,
I learned it, and am glad of it every day. I'm a (very) amateur singer.
Karaoke was made for me. Two of my musically gifted friends went to a lot of
effort to arrange and perform my favorite musical theater song with me at a
most memorable talent show. I travelled to Kenya for college. I ran down a
mountain and leapt a stream with my guide. I learned to cook Chapatti in a
fireplace. I bathed in hot springs, outside. I wouldn't have had the courage
to tackle any of this if I hadn't gone to Colorado first. My teachers there
taught me to travel safely, efficiently, and finally with style. They pushed
me past my fears, and to the tops of a few mountains while they were at it.
I was once asked to help with a student seminar. Not knowing what I was
agreeing to, I said yes. I learned more about dancing, hotel booking, and
video editing than I would have ever guessed. I also learned that a bottle
of Coke, some adrenaline, and a fairly new friendship are just enough
incentive to keep me up all night long. I have cosplayed as Carmen Sandiego
and "The Chief". I've even sung Ke$ha in public. My friends have proof of it
all. Finally, I get to teach all sorts of people about how blind folks use
technology. Here's the crazy part, they pay me to do it! Ok, I know that
sounds like a lot of random facts, but I promise there's a connecting
thread. These aren't just random vignettes. Each of these things helped to
mold me into the person I am today, and directly, or indirectly, the
National Federation of the Blind and its members were linked to each tale.
Yes, that includes both Carmen and Ke$ha.) I won't name anyone here, as I
would miss as many as I would call out, but the people I mention in the
above stories are all Federationists. My first blind friends and mentor's in
The Nebraska Association of Blind Students, and NFB of Nebraska, my
off-the-record teacher of blind students, staff and fellow students at the
Colorado Center for the Blind, my wonderful colleagues at the National
Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute, and all those others I've met
along the way have changed my view of blindness, and myself. They've even
given me opportunities to do the same for other blind people. This is why
I'm a Federationist.
Jonathan Franks:
By meeting members of the National Association of Blind Students & the Texas
Association of Blind Students I knew that my blindness didn't define my
ability to graduate from college. Due to the philosophy of the NFB, I know
that I'm employed not because I'm blind, but because I'm qualified.
Jerad Nylin:
I am a member of the National Federation of the Blind because I like to
raise the expectations for myself and others who are blind. This is why I'm
a Federationist. A man just called me at 9:46pm & told me "I feel better
about my blindness after talking with U" Made my day!
Jeff Shankle:
Because my parents showed me how blind people thrive in a sighted world...
others should be able to also.
Rose Sloan:
Advocacy, mentorship, friendship, volunteerism, equality, opportunity, and
love.
Shannon Cantan:
Growing up, I often wondered how I could accomplish my dreams while blind.
with the Federation, I got my answer.
Michael Ausbun:
It seems like yesterday. Only yesterday that I lost my sight, and my family
was left reeling. Confused, hurt, terrified of the future, but determined
that their child, their grandson would be successful. I was lucky to have
such strong-willed grandparents and a mom who was willing to advocate for
braille and travel instruction. These figures in my life always pushed me to
be as independent and strong as they thought I could be. I was marginally
successful at fulfilling their expectations of me, pushing the limits for
what we all thought a blind person ought to be capable of accomplishing.
Even so, as I entered college, I was concerned, a little bit afraid, and a
lot bit unsure of what the future was going to hold. As a 'vision impaired'
individual, I figured that I would graduate from college and do
something...not sure what, but something. At the very least, if all else
failed and I was unable to do the standard job a 'vision impaired' person
could do-namely teaching-then I could default to social security-something I
would rather not do if I could help it.
Three years ago, I attended my first National Convention of the National
Federation of the Blind as a scholarship recipient. I figured I would take
the money and move on with my education. After all, I was not like other
blind people, I did what I wanted to do with little hesitation, and got
around unassisted all the time! I never thought my life would be changed in
that moment. During this convention, I heard lots of speeches from lots of
different people, demonstrating how these blind people were changing the
lives of blind people, and raising those expectations of blindness that
others had for blind people. I was in awe, and shocked. I met my first
totally blind person, who later became my best friend and my fiancé, Bre
Brown, and was blown away at how independent someone with no sight could be.
My perceptions about blindness were entirely turned upside down. I realized,
that it was not only acceptable to be blind, but that it was respectable to
be blind.
Since then, I have jumped all in with zero reservations. Some people ask me
why I am a Federationists. My answer is simple. With love, hope, and
determination, we transform dreams into reality. Thanks to the work of the
Federation, I can live a fully productive life, that I want to live,
independently and confidently. No task is out of my reach with proper
training and opportunity. I am now a student at the Louisiana Center for the
Blind, where I have been granted opportunities to learn and grow. I have
already, in my short time here accomplished tasks I never thought I would
ever do. I have cooked easy meals and complex ones; utilized, with zero
modification, several different power tools including a table saw, radial
arm saw, and a bandsaw; I have travelled across the town under sleep shades
with little to no trouble at all, and all of this has been possible thanks
to those who have worked diligently in our organization. Thanks to those
people who came before me.
I am a Federationists because I was granted my freedom, my confidence, and
my independence through this wonderful organization of ours, and I hope to
be able to give the same someday. I am a Federationists because the work has
not concluded. I am a Federationists because I believe in the full capacity
of blind people. I am a Federationists because I believe.
Nickie:
Growing up in the NFB, I know the importance of advocating, sharing &
teaching my rights & abilities with my community.
Ronza Othman:
I was born just a few months after my parents and five older siblings came
to the United States as Palestinian refugees. When I was 14 months old, my
uncle noticed that "something wasn't right" and convinced my mother to take
me to the eye doctor. My family learned that I was legally blind, but we had
come from a culture where people with disabilities are hidden in back rooms
and don't have opportunities to participate in society. And so "blind" is
really a bad word. In the Arab culture, it's not just not respectable to be
blind, it's something to hide because it shames the entire family. 
My mother made it her mission to find every doctor who could suggest
treatments. When she accepted that treatment wasn't an option, she shifted
her goal to finding every teacher who could teach me. She was going to make
sure that I would live a full, meaningful, independent life regardless of
blindness. She refused to hide me, even though we didn't use the word blind.
I learned how to read, how to write, and how to use what little sight I had
to get along as though I were sighted. I used some alternative techniques
related to cooking, construction, and non-academic tasks. I just didn't know
they were non-visual techniques - they were just the way that my mom or
siblings taught me to do things. I did well academically, but I suffered
from eye strain, headaches, and severe back pain from leaning forward to
bring my face inches from the words. I remember thinking often: "There's got
to be a better way."
And thus I didn't really realize I was blind or that the word applied to me
until one day in college when I was walking across the campus and dove out
of the way of a drunk driver. I stumbled into a construction hole I hadn't
seen. I broke my ankle, and I thought: "There's got to be a better way." 
I began attending law school where I had to read and analyze a great deal in
a short time. I could not visually keep up with the assignments and I was
falling farther and farther behind my classmates. Once again, I thought:
"There's got to be a better way."
I stumbled across a scholarship program, figuratively this time, for the
National Federation of the Blind. I applied and, though I was not chosen for
the national program, I was chosen for a State scholarship. That is the
first exposure I had to the myriad of better ways. I was invited to a State
Convention, where my parents only allowed me to go if I brought a family
member or family friend along to stay in the hotel room with me because
where I come from, "Muslim girls don't sleep outside of their fathers'
houses without a chaperone." The NFB accepted my cultural idiosyncrasies
even though bringing someone along to the hotel room was contrary to some of
the goals of lodging winners at the convention in the first place. 
I met lots of people who were successful blind people. I thought I had been
successful, but when I attended that first NFB convention and met over 100
other blind people who were out in the world reading independently without
eye strain and headaches, traveling independently and avoiding construction
holes with long white canes, using technology, human readers, and other
methods to access information simultaneously with the sighted world, and all
of the other things to which I didn't even know existed...I realized the NFB
knew what I didn't - not just that there was a better way, but how I could
find all the better ways. And this is why I'm a Federationist.
Jason Edward Polansky:
I was born in Gettysburg, PA with a very rare form of blindness called
bilateral anophthalmia. Even though my mother was and still is a nurse by
occupation and had seen just about everything imaginable, her, my father,
and the doctors were in great shock when they looked at my eyes. They were
not sure what I would be able to do and how I would learn to accomplish
everyday tasks. We saw several different doctors until we were lead to an
eye surgeon, an ocularist, and education services in Frederick County, MD.
In a nutshell, our contacts led us to other contacts who introduced us to
the National Federation of the Blind. During their first convention, they
saw blind adults who had their own families, jobs, homes, and hobbies and
who were living the lives that they wanted to live. Most of all, they
learned to model a positive philosophy of blindness as a foundation as they
raised me. I attended public school just like all other children my age,
learned to read Braille, travel with a cane, and use technology as it became
available. As my teenage years approached, I had responsibilities including
cleaning my room, doing my laundry, taking out the trash, helping my father
with yardwork and handyman-work, just as many of my sighted peers did. I
also swam all four years of high school and was very involved in my church
youth group. After graduating high school with honors, I attended the
Louisiana Center for the Blind to increase my skills and confidence. While
there, I gained more confidence to travel in unfamiliar environments on my
own and improved my kitchen skills. I also built a cedar chest using power
tools, went to New Orleans during Marti Gras, planned a weekend trip to
Dallas, Texas, and cooked a meal for roughly 40 people. After graduating, I
won a national scholarship and felt ready to start college. I am now in my
sophomore year at Messiah College pursuing a bachelors of science in
business marketing. I am involved in several campus organizations, have
attended many networking events, held two summer jobs as a mentor to blind
youth, and excelled both academically and socially during my time at Messiah
College. I am also a member of the Maryland and Pennsylvania student
divisions, on top of all of these things. I know that I would not be the
person who I am today without the National Federation of the Blind.
Terry Hall:
I first heard about the National Federation of the Blind in 2000 through
friends who were involved in the organization. I attended my first New York
state convention in 2000 and my first national convention in Philadelphia in
2001. At first I thought the federation was more of a social organization.
Many of the things the organization was working for didn't really feel like
they applied to me. However, while I was unsure about some things, and it
took a while for me to understand some of the legislative issues and
resolutions, I slowly grew to believe in the Federation.
Over the years, my relationships with Federationists, including my affiliate
president and my girlfriend, brought me to a deeper understanding of the
Federation, what it stood for, and the impact it has on blind people. I
began attending chapter meetings more regularly in 2013. While enrolled in a
structured discovery training program I had the opportunity to attend events
like the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland's Day in Annapolis,
which helped me feel connected to the legislative issues we were fighting
for at the time, as well as connecting me with other Federationists.
I'm a member of the National Federation of the Blind because we are fighting
for equal rights & opportunities for blind individuals across the country. 
Bre Brown:
I was born in to a family where blindness is no stranger. My mom, who
happens to be blind, raised me with high expectations, gave me as many
opportunities as she could, and was never afraid to let me try new things.
There were many times when I told her about something I wanted to do. She
never said no, but sometimes asked how I would do it. I didn't always know,
but I was determined to figure it out. When I got to high school, I began to
have many questions about my future that my sighted peers didn't have. My
mom taught me to be as independent as she could, but there were some things
she didn't know how to teach me. I knew I could have a bright and successful
future, but I also knew I needed more skills. As all of this was happening,
some of my friends were talking about all the places they go, the people
they know, the projects they were doing, and so much more. All of this talk
was surrounding the National Federation of the Blind. In 2009 I decided to
join our dynamic organization, Within six months I was hooked. My worries
about my future were short lived. I found a family who believes in me,
challenges me, encourages me, and shows me love every day. Because of this
mentoring and guidance, I have become a graduate of the Louisiana center for
the Blind and have received my undergraduate degree from Texas State
University. Because of the federation, I learned that I can do more than I
ever imagined. Words cannot describe my love for our organization. Not only
has the federation given me so much and changed my life, I love giving back.
Our organization has achieved many victories over the years, but our work is
not done. I am a proud federationist, and I am thrilled to be a part of what
we will achieve in the future.
Gabe Cazares:
As a first-generation Latinx Texan, the Federation has given me
self-confidence, self-assurance, independence and passion. When I met the
National Federation of the Blind, I instantly found mentors who challenged
me to achieve more than I thought was ever possible. Those same mentors
continue challenging me to be the best that I can be both professionally and
personally. I am a Federationist because the National Federation of the
Blind has played a major role in shaping me into the man I am today. And,
because I love big families!
Eric Guillory:
I was 15 when I first heard about the National Federation of the Blind.
Unlike so many students, I was blessed to have a fantastic TVI named Janet
Bernhardt, who, despite my initial protestations, encouraged me to attend
The Louisiana Center for the blind's STEP Program. Though I have not been
nearly as active in the Federation as I am now over a portion of those
intervening 26 years, I am privileged to state unequivocally that the
Federation has changed my life and that of countless thousands of blind
people, their families, friends, and colleagues. Today, I am privileged to
administer the very program I initially resisted attending. Standing on the
shoulders of those intrepid men and women who have gone before, it is
wonderful to pay it forward to future generations. Witnessing students
raising expectations for themselves and seeing families transformed by the
love, hope, and determination embodied in the Federation is an incredible
blessing.
Brian McCann:
I once thought that being blind meant not being a productive citizen. I was
terrified, depressed and unmotivated. I wouldn't admit that I was blind or
had a disability. This was until I found the National Federation of the
Blind (NFB). The NFB and its philosophy have taught me to be proud of who I
am. My NFB family puts challenges in front of me, not to hold me back but to
push me forward. I now know that I can do and be anything I want. Those
fears are not feared anymore. My future is wide open to anything that I put
my mind to. I now stand tall with my white cane!
Miranda Kilby:
I am a Federationist, because the national Federation of the blind, believes
in equality, opportunity, and security for the blind.
Danielle Trevino:
Because nobody treats me like I'm broken or in need of saving or requiring a
cure. Because in the presence of my Federation family, I am seen for me and
not my disability. Because we are strengthening the up-and-coming generation
of blind people to be fearless and proud. Because when any of us need
back-up, we can count on an army of thousands. Because I have forged bonds
with people who are my support when I am weak and need to cry and my
cheering section when I am celebrating a triumph. Because we are making our
presence known, one cane tap (or tail wag) at a time. Because I am living
the life I want. A life full of adventure, hope, love, dreams,
opportunities, forward motion, and so, so many more reasons to be thankful.
Marci Carpenter:
Because people like Jamie and the National Federation of the Blind are
creating opportunities for blind children to learn science that I never
had... That's why I'm a Federationist.
John Bailey:
I am a federationist because the National Federation of the Blind actually
gets things done.
Mindy Davis Lavern:
I was asked to write a post about why I chose to be a member of the National
Federation of the Blind and here it is:
My first-born son was 4 months old when he was diagnosed with Optic Nerve
Hypoplasia. I was new to motherhood, and even less experienced with
blindness. There was an unsettling fear in my heart and mind about what the
future would hold for him, and the experiences he would miss out on. It was
our Early Steps therapist, Mrs. Sandy Dunham, who first introduced us to NFB
of Louisiana, and I thank God she did. The NFB has taught me not to be
afraid, a productive and happy future is possible. Live the Life You Want,
is their slogan. Fear is what cripples us from reaching our true potential.
The blind are no different from the rest of the world, with ambition and an
appropriate education, you can become anything/anyone you desire. My son's
eyes may not work well, but he is intelligent, creative, unique, and has a
beautiful heart. Strider, you are the reason I am a Federationist!
Amy Plumlee:
People often ask me why I belong to the NFB and my response to that is ...
The NFB is like a second family to me. There are members who I felt I have
known my whole life without even knowing them yet. Because I can call one of
them if I am having a assistive tech issue and they can walk me through it.
Because I believe in what the message says you can live the life you want. I
think that this organization is a life changer for so many and for many more
in the future.
Brittany Berk:
My NFB story began before I even know about the organization. In the summer
of 2006, just as I was beginning my senior year of high school, I was
introduced to the first blind person I had ever known. Dacia quickly became
an integral part of our social circle. It was like she had always been
there.
In September 2011, Dacia's mom, Cora, invited me to the National Federation
of the Blind of Missouri- Columbia Chapter's annual picnic. Cora offered to
pay my dues since I was in college at the time. I haven't looked back since
that fall. I quickly became involved at the chapter level.
I attended my first state convention in 2012 and began to see things from a
wider perspective. But the real eye-opener for me was when I attended my
second Jefferson City Seminar at the state capitol. It was then that I
realized that I had the power to effect change for the better.
When I joined the NFB, I worried that I wouldn't be accepted because I was
sighted. And while I occasionally get asked why I care because I'm sighted,
I have never been made to feel like I don't belong.
To answer the question, "Why am I a Federationist": I have become part of a
huge family who are working toward a common goal: equality, opportunity, and
security for the blind. I have never wanted to change the world; I realized
at a young age that it's nigh impossible for one person to do so. I simply
want to better one little corner of the world. In the Federation, I have
found one little corner where I can make a difference. I hope that the work
I do will leave a mark, however small, on the lives of blind and visually
impaired people and their families in my community, in this state, and
around the country.
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.
Alison Dees Tarver:
My son was born in April, 2006. That was the day that my life took a
complete turn from the direction I had paved out. When I entered the
hospital, I was to become a new mom, but when I left the hospital I took on
the role of a new mom with a special needs child. So, like most of us do, I
needed to figure out how I was going to help my child and be the best
advocate, teacher, therapist, cheerleader and mother for a boy with Cerebral
Palsy. I will be honest and tell you my focus was on the developmental
stages that all pediatricians focus on at your visits. I had no concerns
about my child's vision until he was three years old. As it drew close to
pre-k time, I realized there was something going on with his vision but just
couldn't put my finger on it. In 2010, I was told that my child was legally
blind even though he had some vision. So, I left the eye doctor thinking
"well ok, so what does that mean?"
In June, 2010 my relationship with the federation began. I received a visit
from a wonderful lady who works with the blind and visually impaired. She
came to my house to evaluate my son and visit with me about blindness and
the resources that are available through the federation for parents of blind
children. She told me that my child needed Braille instruction. When she
left, I'll be honest, I was not 100% sold on braille. Like some other
parents with children with low vision, I thought "what about magnification?"
"Why is braille the way to go?" So, I kept looking into my options and
talking with people trying to figure out what to do. And low and behold she
came back to my house except this time with a blind adult who was also a
federation member. This was the first time I had ever been around a blind
person in such a personal setting. It was inspiring. Not only was this
person competent but he was married with two children! Wow, I remember
thinking this is the life I want for my child! He sat down with me at my
kitchen table and we talked about why braille was so important as my child's
main reading and writing medium. After he left I was sold on braille and
have never regretted that decision!
The federation and its members continued to impress me every time I attend
their activities. Through their State Conventions and BELL programs, I have
been able to interact with so many competent blind people and can proudly
call so many of them my friends. Through the federation, I also got to meet
other young adults who were blind but also had additional handicaps. I have
had the privilege to interact with three amazing young ladies who have
multiple hurtles that they deal with every day. These ladies are such an
inspiration for parents of children who have blindness as well as additional
handicaps. Every time I come in contact with the federation I think to
myself "this is what I want for my child." The federation is living proof
that being blind does not hold you back, and you truly can live the life you
want.
Today, my son is main stream in the 5th grade. He is an honor roll student
who was nominated for 5th grade student of the year! He is a testament to
how the federation with their resources and support can open doors and lift
barriers in providing your child with a wonderful, meaningful life. I am
truly grateful to the federation for all of its support over the last seven
years.
Teresa Romero:
My name is Teresa; most people refer to me as the blind girl's mom or
Naudia's mom...
I walked into the doors of the National Federation of the Blind in 2008 when
Naudia was three years old. I felt like I was the only parent who had a
blind child which was worrisome as a parent. Ms.
Farber from the infant and toddlers program was coming to my home at the
time. She was teaching me how to teach Naudia certain tactical skills such
as, potty training, walking, etc.
In December of 2008, I was told that Naudia was three years-old and it would
be time for school. I enrolled her into my local school not knowing any
better. The school began to ask me questions on how I wanted my daughter to
learn. At that time I had no clue, but I attended an IEP meeting where I sat
in front of a panel of four people that asked questions. The option to learn
by audio seemed like the best option, in my opinion. I assumed that since
they were teachers, they would know best. I also assumed this was routine.
However, when they continued to question me I felt as if they were unsure
about to teach Naudia everything she needs to learn/know before
Kindergarten. I felt my expectations was fading away as I sat across the
table it was overwhelming to say the least.
Summer time came by and the school said that a meeting for ESY would be
held. What was ESY? They said it's just summer school and to not worry
because Naudia didn't need to attend; great, I thought! When I attended the
ESY, I found out that the county I lived in couldn't afford the ESY program.
It
wasn't so much that she didn't need it, I just thought it was unfair.
Someone attending that meeting whispered in my ear as if it was a secret
society, and suggested I contact the NFB. I went on the internet to do my
research. The next morning I was waiting at the NFB, waiting for them to
open. As I pulled up to their beautiful building, I stared with amazement
when seeing so many people with canes walking alone; it was an enlightening
moment.
I approached the front desk receptionist and informed her that I have a
blind child, what do I do? The lady said she would get someone for me. They
put me in contact with Susan Polanski who is Jason's mother. She said she
wasn't located in the building, but would be happy to talk and answer any
questions or concerns that I may have. It was hard for me to open up
initially, but a wonderful thing at the same time. It has been a joyous
experience more than anything else. My mind was eased in knowing that I was
doing what I thought was right for my daughter and the joy came from seeing
my attitude towards blindness change.
Susan and I stayed in touch on a constant basis; she had so much information
to offer. She gave me hope and shared her useful knowledge. She inspired me
to be the parent I needed to be for my child. Within months, I looked at my
circumstances in a new light and knew that I needed to prepare for my
daughter's future. The answer of "I don't know" was not an answer any
longer. I wanted her to grow up in a place where she felt "normal", so I
decided to get more involved with the NFB.
I learned that the more I reached out, the more they would respond about the
various types of situations, but one that would change her life completely
in knowing my rights and what an INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATION PROGRAM truly is;
I no longer felt alone. I met countless families and other blind adults who
I interviewed with and I still continue to do so. I met a man by the name of
Marco Carranza at my first state convention and followed him around as he
would interact and walk with his cane with such confidence. He appeared
happy as if that was unheard of, and I can smile about that now. That was my
"wow" moment and decided that's how I want my daughter to be like Mr.
Carranza. I encouraged my other kids to come along anytime and they too have
learned so much.
Many people comment they could not do what I do as if raising a blind child
with such high expectations was difficult, but I respond "I do what you do
with yours and my other two". Someone once said to me, "Why do I pretend
that my child isn't blind and why would I live in denial?". I can laugh
about that now. This journey has not been easy, but whose to say raising
children in general was going to be easy. Regardless of such, I thank God
for guiding me to the NFB and meeting my NFB family. I feel the genuine love
and they truly care and stand up for equality.
Gary Wunder:
One frequent topic of discussion in the National Federation of the Blind is
why we joined, when we joined, and those things that pushed us towards and
away from the organization. Very often we find ourselves trying to tell one
unified story but, like most things in life, the reason for making
significant decisions in our lives often is a culmination of events and
maybe even an epiphany or two along the way.
If I really think hard about it, I believe there are at least three reasons
why I joined and became an active member of the Federation, and let me
emphasize that there is a tremendous difference between joining and being
active, though one is necessary before the other. First and foremost I
believe that I joined the National Federation of the Blind because I was
loved into it. I met with a member or two of the Federation, not knowing
that they were affiliated with any kind of organization of the blind. In
fact I don't think I knew that there were organizations of the blind, only
organizations for the blind. It never occurred to me that there was any
particular reason why blind people should unite for common action. The
concept of an organization of the blind was not just something I was unaware
of or neutral about; I actually thought the idea was stupid, a reflection of
the admonition I got from my elementary resource room teacher that too
closely associating with blind people would lead to isolation from those who
could see, and the goal, after all, was to make our way in sighted society.
The only information I wanted from the blind people who turned out to be
associated with the Federation was what it was like to own and use a guide
dog. At age fifteen I thought that all dogs that did guiding for the blind
were Seeing Eye dogs, and although the blind people I met with set me
straight on the fact that the Seeing Eye was the name of the school, both
had their dogs from the Seeing Eye, so it seemed to make little difference
to me.
After getting all the information I could about how to work, groom, and feed
a guide dog, I was ready to get off the phone until more questions popped
into my mind, but my new friends were not so anxious to leave the line. They
seemed to like it when I told them stories about me, and, to my great
gratification, they remembered those stories and would ask follow-up
questions in subsequent conversations. In turn I slowly gave up my selfish
pursuit of information just for me, and I found that these people had a lot
worth knowing about them. One man ran an office supply business - imagine
that, a blind guy in his own business. Another man was in law school, a
career I had been steered away from because doing legal work took a lot of
research, the material to be researched was in print, and blind people could
not see or independently read print.
At some point I realized that not only did I like the people with whom I was
talking, but I admired them. Because they showed me love and attention, it
felt good and right to do the same thing. Eventually I started to take
seriously the issues that seemed to mean so much to them: discrimination in
employment, unequal opportunity in education, discrimination in housing and
transportation, abuse by government agencies whose job it was to serve the
blind, the need for advocates when blind people went for financial
assistance through Social Security or the Missouri blind pension. At first I
was convinced that I would never need help in any of these areas, but I was
certainly willing to help them. Later I learned that any blind person out in
the world would face these issues, and I came to take seriously the work of
the National Federation of the Blind, not just to make my friends happy with
me but to make the world a better place for blind people who deserved
justice, mercy, and an equal chance. In the bargain I got myself not a new
family but a companion family, and I thank God for these people every day.
So as important as the philosophy, policy, and the programs that spring from
them are in my Federation life, at least one of the three reasons I am a
Federationist is that I was loved into it, and how can anyone do better than
love?


Richard Payne,  President
National Federation of the Blind of Ohio
937/829/3368
Rchpay7 at gmail.com
The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want;
blindness is not what holds you back


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