Blind – Like Her

Geraldine Lawhorn

Geraldine Jerrie Lawhorn, a prominent figure in the American deafblind community, was a multi-talented performer, pianist, actress, and instructor. She made history as the first deafblind African American to earn a college degree in the United States. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, she dedicated her life to advocating for the rights and inclusivity of individuals with disabilities, leaving behind a lasting legacy. Geraldine’s accomplishments continue to inspire and empower deafblind individuals worldwide.

SingaporeBlindDeaf

Theresa Poh Lin Chan

Theresa Poh Lin Chan, born in Singapore in 1943, overcame deafblindness to become an inspiration for many. After excelling academically at the Perkins School for the Blind in Massachusetts, she returned to Singapore to teach at the Singapore School for the Blind. Chan’s remarkable life story continues to inspire generations, showcasing the power of determination and the triumph of the human spirit.

JapanBiotechnologistBlind

Chieko Asakawa

Chieko Asakawa (born 1958) is a blind Japanese computer scientist, renowned for her groundbreaking work in accessibility at IBM Research – Tokyo. Her contributions to the field of technology have significantly improved the lives of individuals with visual impairments, making her a pioneering figure in the realm of accessibility.

UgandaBlindDisabled

Florence Ndagire

Florence Ndagire is a female Ugandan lawyer who has made significant contributions to the field of human rights. She currently works as a legal researcher and human rights lawyer at the United Nations (UN) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Ndagire is not only a trailblazer in her profession, but she is also a source of inspiration for many as she serves as the chairperson of the UN Women Regional Group for Eastern and Southern Africa.

United StatesBlindDeaf

Laura Bridgman

Laura Dewey Lynn Bridgman (1829-1889) was the first deaf-blind American child to receive a significant education in the English language. Educated at the Perkins Institution for the Blind, under the guidance of Samuel Gridley Howe, Bridgman learned to read and communicate using Braille and the manual alphabet. Although she gained celebrity status after being visited by Charles Dickens, she spent much of her life in relative obscurity, passing her time sewing and reading books in Braille at the Perkins Institute. Her groundbreaking achievements paved the way for advancements in deaf-blind education.

PolandBlindDisabled

Róża Czacka

Countess Róża Maria Czacka, also known as Elżbieta, was a Polish religious sister who made significant contributions to the education and empowerment of the blind. She adapted Polish phonetics into the Braille alphabet, which became mandated in all schools for the blind in 1934. Her work led to the establishment of the Franciscan Sisters Servants of the Cross, and her efforts continue to inspire and impact the lives of the visually impaired.

United StatesBlindDisabled

Rachael Scdoris

Rachael Scdoris, a trailblazer in the world of sled dog racing, has defied all odds despite being born with a visual disorder. She became the first legally blind person and the youngest musher to complete the 500-mile International Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race and went on to conquer the grueling Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in Alaska. Her remarkable achievements have inspired athletes worldwide.

BangladeshBlindDisabled

Rumana Monzur

Rumana Monzur, a Bangladeshi woman, became a symbol of resilience after being brutally attacked and blinded by her husband for wanting to pursue higher education. Despite her traumatic experience, Rumana continued her studies and achieved a law degree. She now advocates for women’s rights, using her story to inspire others and raise awareness about domestic violence and gender inequality.

GermanyBlindDisabled

Martina Monika Willing

Martina Monika Willing is a celebrated Paralympic athlete from Germany known for her exceptional talent and resilience. Born on October 3, 1959, she has overcome tremendous obstacles as she competes in field events despite being both blind and paraplegic. Her inspiring journey has made her a true icon in the world of adaptive sports.