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Trude Raad, born on April 27, 1990, is a deaf Norwegian track and field athlete who has left an indelible mark on the sport. Known for her exceptional skills in the discus throw and hammer throw events, Trude has consistently represented Norway at various international competitions throughout her career.
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.
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.
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.
Olga Ivanovna Skorokhodova was a remarkable Soviet scientist, therapist, teacher, and writer who overcame incredible challenges to make significant contributions to the field of education for deafblind children. Her groundbreaking research and tireless efforts have had a lasting impact on the field of special education, inspiring countless others and leaving behind an incredible legacy.
Blanche Wilkins Williams was an American educator of deaf children and a trailblazer in the deaf community. Despite facing significant adversity and discrimination, she became the first African American woman to graduate from the Minnesota State Academy for the Deaf in 1893. She embarked on a remarkable career in education and made significant contributions to deaf education. Blanche Wilkins Williams’s dedication to inclusivity and her commitment to deaf education left an indelible mark on society.
Claudia L. Gordon is a trailblazer and advocate for the rights of deaf individuals in the United States. Born in St. Mary, Jamaica in March 1972, Gordon’s life took a significant turn when she suddenly lost her sense of hearing at the age of eight. This life-altering event thrust her into a world of challenges and discrimination, but also ignited a fierce determination to overcome barriers and fight for equality.
Princess Alice of Battenberg was a remarkable figure in European royal history. She overcame challenges throughout her life, including being born deaf. Her marriage connected her to the Greek and Danish royal families, but political upheaval forced her into exile multiple times. Despite personal struggles, she devoted herself to charity work and sheltered Jewish refugees during WWII. Her legacy as a selfless and dedicated individual lives on.