A Different Vision

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In May of each year, the Guild hosts an exhibition of works by artists with vision loss. Shortly before the opening this year, I received an email from a woman who volunteers teaching art to underprivileged children in the Chicago. She had seen the report on one of the Passionate Focus artists, David Simpson, on WGN-TV (http://www.wgntv.com/community/chicagosveryown/wgntv-chicagos-very-own-david-simpson-artist,0,966096.story). She was very impressed with David’s art and especially his attitude. She asked me if I could put her in touch with David so he could inspire her students to pursue art as a way to express themselves. David immediately accepted.

While I am very proud of our programs and services that help people with vision loss live independently and productively, what impressed me the most about the Guild is our fundamental belief that every person has the ability to overcome adversity and thrive. This message is applicable to people struggling with other issues.

Simply knowing that some can overcome a disability can be the difference between success and failure.

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A different language is a different vision of life.

-Federico Fellini

Perhaps I am a little late to the blog game, but I am pleased to welcome you to “A Different Vision,” which offers my personal views on vision loss and rehabilitation. This blog will have many facets including information on visual impairment, the Guild for the Blind’s programs and services and why we truly believe that the best way to help a person with vision loss is to match the programs and services to their specific goals and needs.

Many organizations that serve people with vision loss state in their mission statements that they exist to help their clients find independence and dignity. However, true independence depends on self-determination. For someone who is visually impaired that means finding the tools and skills they need to live the life they wish to live. If they are seeking employment, true independence requires they have the opportunity to pursue a job that meets their skills and interests.

Since our beginnings in 1947, our goal has been to help our members reach their goals. Instead of applying a one-size-fits-all approach, we spend time asking our members about their goals. This does not mean success is guaranteed or that we can provide every program that people want. But we promise to listen to their hopes and fears.

To that end, “A Different Vision” is about listening and sharing. Each week, I or a guest blogger will share an opinion, a new adaptive tool or strategy or an idea for a new program and services. We invite you all to comment on the post or lend tips or tricks or make suggestions for new posts.

So what are the guidelines? First, the views expressed are of the author and not the Guild for the Blind. I hope to speak honestly and openly about issues facing people with vision loss. I hope all participants will adhere to principals of my seven-year-old’s classroom: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? Follow these guidelines and we will have a meaningful conversation.

So let’s get started. As always, I welcome feedback, suggestions and criticisms. I also welcome guest bloggers. Please send me your submissions to david@guildfortheblind.org. I promise to consider all submissions.

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