Betty born 1950 with ROP first cane 1967

Safe Toddles Talks Orientation and Mobility

Betty grew up without a mobility tool – she will not admit to having any difficulties in her life, and on the surface one can attest – she is the embodiment of success. She is educated, she has a job, she is well-spoken and capable. As an O&M instructor – my interest is in the travel decision. She talked about using a guide to move about and she was careful to not say too much about – it -suggesting that relying on a guide, even though you had no alternative, is somehow taboo – instead of something that should make you feel angry and question why that choice was made for her as a young child.

She had O&M, had great skills, but still she was injured crossing the street- bikes come out of nowhere- they are a danger to pedestrians – that is the reason for the dog – perhaps there were other close calls – perhaps that was the only one. But, the real issue is not whether she was independent enough – it is her reality that she is not allowed to wish for better – safer, options growing up. Even when she got her dog guide, her parents disapproved! I am so inspired by her story that she stayed away from her family for almost a year – until they would accept her with her dog guide. That is strength to admire.

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