Afleveringen
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Episode Title: Looking Ahead to 2025
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Jonathan Price
Episode Overview:
In this special New Year’s episode, host Kim Wardlow is joined by Aftersight Podcast Producer Jonathan Price to discuss exciting changes coming to Navigating Life with Vision Loss and updates on Aftersight's other podcasts. Jonathan shares insights into NLVL’s new seasonal format, the topics for the Spring and Fall 2025 seasons, and how listeners can contribute questions and guest suggestions. They also highlight Aftersight’s other podcasts (Blind Level Tech, The Blind Chick, and Blindsight) and tease collaborations, live events, and outreach plans for 2025.
Key Highlights:
Seasonal Format for NLVL: Starting March 2025, NLVL will adopt a seasonal structure with two 16-episode seasons per year, focusing on advocacy in Spring and safety in Fall.
Call for Listener Input: Encouragement for listeners to submit questions, topic ideas, and guest suggestions.
Other Aftersight Podcasts: Updates on Blind Level Tech, The Blind Chick, and Blindsight, including their unique focuses and growing global recognition.
Upcoming Initiatives: Plans for live events, conference appearances, expanded social media presence, and community outreach sessions in 2025.
Chapter Markers:
00:29 – Introduction and holiday reflections with Jonathan Price.
04:46 – Overview of changes to Navigating Life with Vision Loss.
07:39 – Details on the new seasonal format and Spring 2025 advocacy focus.
13:22 – Highlights from Aftersight’s other podcasts.
20:09 – Community outreach plans and feedback opportunities.
23:06 – Closing thoughts on upcoming programming and a Happy New Year. -
Episode Title: New Year, New Goals
Host: Kim Wardlow
Guest: Charlie Kramer
Episode Overview:
In this special New Year’s Eve episode, host Kim Wardlow is joined by guest Charlie Kramer to discuss setting meaningful and achievable goals for 2025. They delve into strategies for creating effective goals, tracking progress, and managing challenges like fear of failure and unexpected obstacles. Charlie shares his personal experiences and insights on balancing ambition with grace and offers practical tools for staying accountable and focused throughout the year.
Key Highlights:
Reflecting on 2024: Kim and Charlie discuss looking back at accomplishments and lessons learned.
Breaking Down Goals: Tips on setting specific, measurable goals with smaller benchmarks.
Prioritization: Distinguishing between present priorities and long-term goals.
Accountability Tools: How to leverage apps, coaches, or trusted friends to stay on track.
Failure as Growth: Embracing failure as an opportunity to learn and move forward.
Kindness and Courage: Encouraging self-compassion and bravery in setting and pursuing goals.
Chapter Markers:
00:00 – Introduction and episode overview.
01:35 – Guest introduction: Charlie Kramer’s reflections on 2024 and personal milestones.
03:46 – Goals vs. resolutions: A fresh approach to New Year planning.
07:40 – Setting specific goals and breaking them into smaller steps.
11:30 – Categorizing goals and identifying present priorities.
15:22 – Accountability strategies and tools for success.
19:22 – Flexibility in the face of challenges and reframing failure.
23:41 – Reassessing and adjusting goals over time.
27:43 – Writing goals down: The key to clarity and focus.
31:17 – Final advice: Be kind and courageous with yourself. -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow welcomes Bill Lundgren back to discuss strategies for staying connected with loved ones during the holiday season. They explore how vision loss impacts relationships, share insights on overcoming barriers, and discuss the importance of communication, setting boundaries, and embracing technology to maintain meaningful connections.
Kim also expresses gratitude to all who donated on Colorado Gives Day, emphasizing the support it provides for Aftersight's programs, including virtual book clubs, peer support groups, and white cane distribution.
Chapter Markers:
00:05 - Welcome to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
02:21 - Vision loss and its impact on relationships
04:25 - Circles of connection: Maintaining relationships
06:42 - Asking for help: Changing perspectives
10:21 - Overcoming internal barriers to connection
12:41 - Initiating and deepening relationships
17:03 - Balancing effort in relationships
18:48 - Using technology to stay connected
21:02 - Adapting to changing relationships
25:08 - Levels of intimacy and connection
27:36 - Choosing which relationships to nurture
30:02 - Closing thoughts and upcoming episodes
Contact Information:
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: [email protected] -
In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, Kim Wardlow is joined by Penn Street from The Blind Chick Podcast to explore strategies for making holiday shopping easier and more enjoyable for those with low vision. From the accessibility challenges of online shopping to the benefits of shopping local and personalized gift ideas, Penn shares her insights and experiences. They discuss using assistive technologies like Be My Eyes, the joy of giving experiences over material gifts, and the importance of taking care of yourself during the holiday season.
The episode also highlights Colorado Gives Day and encourages listeners to consider charitable giving as a meaningful holiday gift.
Chapter Markers
00:31 – Introduction and Colorado Gives Day
02:07 – Welcoming Guest Penn Street and the Holiday Spirit
03:08 – Challenges and Strategies for In-Person Shopping
04:07 – Charitable Giving as a Holiday Gift
05:45 – Benefits of Online Shopping and Accessibility Challenges
09:13 – Personalizing Gift Lists and Using Technology
12:00 – Navigating Tactile and Sentimental Gifts
16:00 – Funny Anecdotes from Shopping Experiences
17:23 – Accessibility Issues in Online Shopping Platforms
21:02 – Giving Experiences and Non-Material Gifts
26:20 – Personalizing Strategies for Stress-Free Shopping
30:11 – Self-Care During the Holidays
32:12 – Closing Thoughts and Holiday Wishes
Contact Information
Aftersight
Website: aftersight.org
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: [email protected]
Guest Contact
Penn Street: Co-host of The Blind Chick Podcast -
Episode Title: Holiday Cooking: Taste Without Sight
In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow sits down with Debra Erickson, founder of The Blind Kitchen, to discuss adaptive tools, techniques, and tips for holiday cooking with vision loss. Debra shares her expertise on making cooking safe, enjoyable, and accessible while helping listeners maintain traditions and create memorable meals. From mastering mashed potatoes to baking perfect pies, this episode offers practical advice to navigate the kitchen confidently.
Debra also highlights tools available on The Blind Kitchen's website, including the boil alert disc, adaptive measuring spoons, locking lid pans, and more. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or perfecting a favorite family recipe, this episode inspires listeners to embrace cooking despite vision challenges.
Additionally, Kim reminds listeners to support Aftersight for Colorado Gives Day on December 10th. Donations can be pre-scheduled at ColoradoGives.org by searching for Aftersight.
Contact Information:
Aftersight: Visit ColoradoGives.org and search for Aftersight to donate or learn more.
The Blind Kitchen: Explore tools, recipes, and tips at TheBlindKitchen.com.
Chapter Markers:
00:10 - Introduction: Aftersight and Colorado Gives Day
00:29 - Welcome to the Holiday Series
01:37 - Meet Debra Erickson
01:59 - Overview of The Blind Kitchen
03:06 - Addressing Safety Concerns
03:51 - Relying on Non-Visual Senses in Cooking
04:40 - Tools That Make Cooking Accessible
06:11 - Holiday Gift Ideas for Cooks with Vision Loss
08:21 - The Science Behind the Boil Alert Disc
09:14 - Adaptive Measuring Tools
13:03 - Non-Tool Cooking Tips and Techniques
16:11 - Cooking a Holiday Staple: Mashed Potatoes
24:12 - Maintaining Identity Through Cooking
25:36 - Baking Pies with Vision Loss
31:26 - Hosting Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Meals
35:01 - Traditional Holiday Dishes
36:24 - New Year’s Recipes and Traditions
37:27 - Final Tips and Words of Encouragement
39:17 - Cooking on Different Stove Types
40:09 - Closing and Resources
Enjoy this holiday-themed episode as you navigate life with vision loss and create delightful meals for your loved ones! -
Host Kim Wardlow welcomes Bill Lundgren, host of Blindsight podcast and licensed psychotherapist, to discuss navigating family gatherings during the holiday season. The conversation covers managing family dynamics, setting boundaries, and finding joy in changing traditions while living with vision loss.
Chapter Markers
00:30 - Introduction to the holiday series and today’s topic.
02:29 - Overview of Blindsight podcast and its focus on mental health.
03:43 - Challenges of family dynamics during the holidays.
06:08 - Managing family roles and past behavioral patterns.
09:15 - Preparing for gatherings and setting boundaries.
13:32 - Coping with changes in loved ones like aging or memory loss.
17:21 - Handling reactions when attending with vision changes.
25:49 - Finding joy in new holiday experiences and traditions.
29:41 - Closing thoughts on flexibility and embracing challenges.
? Support Aftersight and Navigating Life with Vision Loss!
Contact: Call us at (720) 712-8856 or email [email protected].
Donate: Participate in Colorado Gives Day or schedule your early donation at ColoradoGivesDay.org by searching for Aftersight.
Your generosity helps keep these resources free and supports programs like virtual book clubs, white canes, and more. Thank you for your support! ? -
Join host Kim Wardlow and guest Michael Sisneros, Aftersight's Community Outreach Specialist, for a festive episode dedicated to making your holiday decorations both safe and accessible for everyone, including those with low vision. Michael shares practical tips and personal stories on enhancing your holiday décor with tactile, olfactory, and audio elements to make the season memorable and inclusive. Whether it's adding scented pine cones, crafting textured ornaments, or arranging lights for visibility, there are endless ways to ensure a joyful and accessible holiday.
Michael, who also cares for his father with low vision, discusses how his family maintains traditions while keeping their holiday home accessible. From a motion-activated train around the Christmas tree to scented ornaments that last for years, Michael brings a wealth of ideas to enrich your holiday season safely. Learn about cost-effective décor solutions, organizational tips, and ways to make your home welcoming for all guests with low vision.
Contact Aftersight:
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Email: [email protected]
Colorado Gives Day Reminder
Support Aftersight’s mission by donating through Colorado Gives Day and selecting Aftersight as your chosen nonprofit. Early donations are also accepted, with each contribution helping Aftersight receive additional funds through a donation boost.
Chapter Markers
00:00 Intro and episode overview
00:11 Decorating tips and caregiving experience
05:20 Accessible décor and family traditions
11:18 Tips on lighting, texture, and sound elements
17:42 Using color and contrast in holiday décor
21:16 Safety considerations for low-vision guests
30:58 Favorite holiday memory and closing remarks -
In this holiday episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow welcomes guest Ted Tahquechi to discuss accessible travel tips for navigating the busy holiday season. Ted shares valuable advice on managing challenges for travelers with low vision or blindness, covering everything from navigating crowded airports to using technology for luggage tracking and communicating effectively with staff. With practical tips and thoughtful insights, this episode aims to help listeners travel with confidence and ease during the holidays.
Contact Information:
Guest Contact: Ted Tahquechi’s websites:
tahquechi.com - for his art and photography.
blindtravels.com - for accessible travel insights.
Aftersight Contact:
Website: aftersight.org
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Support Aftersight on Colorado Gives Day:coloradogives.org - Search for “Aftersight” to donate and support podcasts like Navigating Life with Vision Loss.
Next Episode Preview: Join us next week for an episode on "Holiday Decor with our special guest Michael Sisneros.
Episode Highlights and Chapter Markers:
Introduction and Holiday Travel Overview – 00:23
Meet Ted Tahquechi – 01:12
Travel Tips for Navigating Busy Spaces – 03:10
Using Technology for Stress-Free Travel – 05:01
Traveling with a Guide Dog – 09:25
Planning for Delays and Layovers – 12:48
Arrival and Navigating Unfamiliar Destinations – 16:00
Booking Accessible Accommodations – 18:16
Common Misconceptions About Accessible Travel – 19:46
Improvements in Accessible Travel Services – 21:11
Finding Community and Resources for Accessible Travel – 26:42
Embracing the Joy of Holiday Travel – 29:40 -
Join Kim Wardlow, your host, along with the Aftersight team in the first episode of our 8-week holiday series, "Home for the Holidays." As we kick off the season, the team shares their unique holiday traditions, favorite songs and movies, and the cherished memories that bring warmth to the season. From nostalgic ornaments to the art of making tamales, you'll hear stories that highlight the diversity of holiday customs and the ways we each celebrate. This episode invites listeners to connect and share their own traditions with us.
Contact Information:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (720) 712-8856 (Aftersight)
We’d love to hear your unique holiday traditions, or if you have questions for our hosts and guests throughout the holiday series, please reach out!
Chapter Markers:
00:09 – Opening and Introduction to Navigating Life with Vision Loss
00:26 – Kim Wardlow introduces the holiday series and topic overview
01:00 – Team introductions and favorite holiday songs and movies
08:00 – Discussions on family holiday traditions and festive foods
18:52 – Personal stories of memorable holiday meals and customs
30:12 – Cultural holiday celebrations and unique family practices
35:56 – Christmas tree traditions and decorating fun
41:00 – Closing remarks and next week’s episode teaser on family gatherings
Colorado Gives Day Information:
As part of the holiday season, please consider participating in Colorado Gives Day by donating to Aftersight. Simply visit coloradogivesday.org and search for "Aftersight" to support our mission. Your donation will help us continue to create meaningful content and support the low-vision community.
Join us next week with guest Ted Tahquechi As we dive into travel and understanding that travel, as someone who is blind, can be quite difficult. But don't worry, we'll steer you in the right way.
Happy Holidays from all of us at Aftersight, and thank you for being part of our community! -
In this final episode of our emergency preparedness series, Navigating Life with Vision Loss host Kim Wardlow speaks with Monika Weber, Boulder County’s Emergency Management Coordinator, and Ryan Airey from the Office of Recovery and Resiliency. They cover essential steps for recovery post-evacuation and sheltering in place. The discussion offers practical tips for preparing go-bags, understanding your insurance, and accessing shelters, ensuring everyone, especially those with disabilities, has the resources they need to navigate emergencies confidently.
Aftersight Contact Information
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (720) 712-8856
Boulder County Disaster Hotline: 303-441-1000
Help Aftersight on Colorado Gives Day by donating at Colorado Gives Day.
Stay tuned as we kick off our holiday series with topics from family traditions to travel and mental health. Thank you for joining us in preparing for a safer tomorrow!
Introduction and Recap of Preparedness Series — 00:30 - 01:50
Meet Ryan Airey and His Role in Recovery — 01:54 - 02:40
Evacuation Shelters and Accessibility — 03:14 - 06:30
Service Animals and Pets in Shelters — 08:04 - 09:50
Sheltering in Place Preparations — 10:11 - 12:30
Adapting Homes for Shelter-in-Place Scenarios — 12:37 - 15:00
Planning for Delayed Emergency Response — 16:13 - 17:35
Insurance Preparedness — 20:27 - 23:58
FEMA's Role in Response and Recovery — 24:30 - 26:54
Navigating Disaster Recovery Centers — 28:06 - 29:58
Final Tips for Disaster Preparation — 33:53 - 35:40
Conclusion and Upcoming Holiday Series — 36:50 - End -
In this conversation, Kim Wardlow and Monika Weber discuss the importance of emergency preparedness, focusing on evacuation planning, transportation options, and the need for a support system. They emphasize the significance of pre-planning for evacuations, especially in areas prone to wildfires and other disasters. The discussion also covers the importance of preparing for cold weather emergencies and the need for families to have clear communication and plans in place. Additionally, they touch on post-evacuation recovery and the resources available for those affected by disasters.
Takeaways
Evacuation planning involves knowing transportation options.
Public transportation may not operate during emergencies.
Building a support system with neighbors is essential.
Practice evacuation plans with pets to ensure safety.
Prepare for cold weather emergencies with adequate supplies.
Create a list of essential items to take during evacuation.
Communication is crucial during evacuation situations.
Consider alternative transportation methods if needed.
Know your evacuation routes ahead of time.
Post-evacuation recovery can be a lengthy process.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Emergency Preparedness
00:56 Planning for Evacuation
03:57 Transportation and Support Systems
07:14 Evacuation Planning for Families and Pets
14:06 Preparing for Cold Weather Emergencies
29:03 Post-Evacuation Considerations -
In this episode, Kim Wardlow and Monika Weber discuss the critical topic of emergency preparedness. They explore the importance of being prepared for various disasters, the role of community support, and the necessity of understanding alert systems. Monika shares her journey into emergency management and highlights common hazards faced in the Boulder area, emphasizing the need for personal preparedness and actionable steps individuals can take to ensure their safety and that of their community.
Takeaways
Emergency preparedness can seem overwhelming, but is essential.
Community support is crucial during emergencies.
Understanding local alert systems can save lives.
Assessing personal risks helps in creating effective plans.
Having a backup plan is vital for safety.
Preparedness should be a communal effort.
Sign up for alerts to stay informed during emergencies.
Take small, actionable steps towards preparedness.
It's important to know your resources and support systems.
Every step taken towards preparedness is a step in the right direction.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Emergency Preparedness
02:00 Monika Weber's Journey into Emergency Management
03:27 Common Disasters and Preparedness Strategies
06:08 The Importance of Community Support in Emergencies
07:14 Understanding Alert Systems
21:22 Actionable Steps for Personal Preparedness -
Episode Summary:
In this episode of *Navigating Life with Vision Loss*, host Kim Wardlow and accessibility advocate Liz Bottner focus on how you can stay prepared during emergencies in public spaces. Liz shares practical tips for you, like using Aira, Be My Eyes, and local emergency alerts to stay informed and navigate unfamiliar situations. She also shares personal experiences, offering insights on how you can stay calm and flexible when things get stressful.
Share your own emergency tips and tune in for more helpful advice on staying prepared this month! [email protected] or call us at (720)712-8856
Takeaways
Emergency preparedness is crucial for everyone, especially those with disabilities.
Public spaces can present unique challenges during emergencies.
Technology can aid in receiving emergency alerts and navigating unfamiliar areas.
Asking for help is vital in emergency situations.
Advocacy is necessary for improving accessibility in emergency preparedness.
Real-life experiences can inform better practices for emergency situations.
Flexibility and grace are important during stressful emergencies.
Ride share services must be held accountable for service animal policies.
Community involvement can enhance emergency preparedness efforts.
Regularly familiarize yourself with emergency exits and routes in unfamiliar places.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Emergency Preparedness
01:31 Accessibility Challenges in Public Spaces
05:30 Navigating Emergencies with Low Vision
07:01 Real-Life Emergency Experiences
11:11 The Importance of Asking for Help
17:06 Dealing with Ride Share Issues
25:01 Advocacy for Emergency Preparedness
30:05 Utilizing Technology for Safety
34:13 Final Thoughts on Emergency Preparedness -
You know you have questions for us so why not ask them Give us a call at (720) 712-8856 or email us at [email protected]. In this conversation...
Kim Wardlow and Liz Bottner discuss the critical aspects of emergency preparedness, particularly for individuals with low vision or disabilities. They emphasize the importance of having a well-organized emergency kit, the need for a support network, and strategies for interacting with emergency responders. The discussion also highlights the necessity of flexibility in planning and the importance of regularly reviewing and updating emergency supplies.
Takeaways
Emergency preparedness is crucial for everyone, especially those with disabilities.
Being prepared is an ongoing process, not a one-time task.
Having a go bag with essential items is vital for emergencies.
Regularly check and update your emergency supplies.
Establish a support network for emergencies.
Communicate your needs to emergency responders in advance.
Flexibility is key in emergency situations.
Include items for pets in your emergency kit.
Utilize accessible formats for important documents.
Give yourself grace and be open to the unexpected in emergencies.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Emergency Preparedness
06:40 Home Organization for Emergencies
14:44 Essential Items for Your Emergency Bag
19:39 Building a Support Network
23:15 Interacting with Emergency Responders
26:48 Flexibility in Emergency Planning -
We know you have questions. We have answers. Give us a call at (720) 712-8856
In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow and fashion expert Trisha Waechtor discuss the importance of fashion as a form of self-expression and empowerment for women in the blind and low vision community. They explore how clothing choices can influence confidence, the significance of building a versatile wardrobe, and essential grooming and skincare tips. The conversation also covers makeup application techniques and encourages listeners to engage in fashion discussions to enhance their personal style.
Takeaways
Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression.
Clothing choices significantly impact confidence levels.
Building a versatile wardrobe starts with a base color.
Comfort in clothing is essential for confidence.
Investing in a good bra can enhance overall appearance.
Hygiene practices contribute to feeling good about oneself.
Simple skincare routines can be effective and inexpensive.
Makeup application techniques can enhance natural beauty.
Engaging in fashion conversations can broaden style options.
Everyone can explore and express their unique fashion sense.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Fashion and Vision Loss
01:31 The Role of Fashion in Self-Expression
11:48 Building a Versatile Wardrobe
20:45 Grooming and Skincare Essentials
28:15 Makeup Tips for Confidence
45:26 Encouragement for Fashion Exploration -
Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you have questions for Kim or any of our guests, give us a call at (720) 712-8856. In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss...
...host Kim Wardlow and guest Tricia Waechter discuss the importance of men's fashion and grooming. They explore how dressing well can boost confidence, the significance of fit in clothing, and practical grooming tips for men, especially those with vision loss. The conversation emphasizes the psychological benefits of looking sharp and provides actionable advice on building a versatile wardrobe, maintaining personal hygiene, and expressing individuality through style.
Takeaways
Dressing sharp builds confidence for men.
Fit is really important in men's fashion.
Invest in a dark charcoal suit for versatility.
Make your life simple with color choices.
Prepare your outfit the night before to reduce stress.
Cleanliness is key for grooming routines.
Use an electric razor for easy shaving.
Regular haircuts keep you looking sharp and tidy.
Shoe care is essential for a polished look.
Express yourself through your hairstyle and clothing choices.
Chapters
00:00 Navigating Men's Fashion and Grooming
16:10 Grooming Essentials for Men
24:24 Expressing Yourself Through Style -
Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss. If you have any questions for Kim or any of our guests, please give us a call at 720-712-8856 or you can email us at [email protected]. In today's episode, Tricia Waechter, founder of Blind Girl Designs, shares her journey from a career in the fashion industry to creating a fashion brand for individuals who are blind or low vision. She emphasizes the importance of fashion as a form of self-expression and the need for accessible and stylish clothing options. Tricia discusses how Blind Girl Designs incorporates tactile elements and easy-to-wear features in their designs, such as no buttons or zippers and the inclusion of pockets. She also highlights the significance of including children in accessible fashion and the importance of feeling confident and comfortable in what you wear. Tricia shares practical tips for selecting and fitting clothing, including asking trusted friends for feedback and engaging with salespeople. She also discusses her future goals for Blind Girl Designs, such as expanding their product line and making garments more accessible for individuals who are totally blind.
Takeaways
Fashion is a form of self-expression and remains important for individuals who are blind or low vision.
Blind Girl Designs incorporates tactile elements and easy-to-wear features in their designs to make fashion accessible and stylish.
Including children in accessible fashion is important for their self-esteem and sense of belonging.
Feeling confident and comfortable in what you wear is crucial, regardless of vision loss.
Practical tips for selecting and fitting clothing include asking trusted friends for feedback and engaging with salespeople.
Future goals for Blind Girl Designs include expanding their product line and making garments more accessible for individuals who are totally blind.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:31 Fashion Confidence, Navigating Style and Blindness
02:21 Tricia's Background and Journey to Blind Girl Designs
09:48 How Blind Girl Designs Caters to Individuals Who Are Blind or Low Vision
14:47 Including Children in Accessible Fashion
16:49 Feeling Confident and Comfortable in What You Wear
22:25 Practical Tips for Selecting and Fitting Clothing
30:25 Future Goals for Blind Girl Designs
33:13 Conclusion -
Summary
In this episode, Kim Wardlow interviews Kim Owens, a mother of a blind child and an advocate for parents of blind children. They discuss Kim's journey with her son's vision loss, the challenges they faced in the education system, and the importance of advocacy and acceptance. Kim shares her experiences with navigating the public school system, finding support and resources, and encouraging her son to pursue his passions. They also touch on the topic of sports and the importance of inclusion and accessibility. Kim is currently writing a book about her journey and offers valuable insights and tips for parents in similar situations.
Takeaways
Acceptance is key in the journey of parenting a blind child. Educating oneself about the child's diagnosis, prognosis, and available tools is crucial for acceptance.
Building a community and connecting with other parents of blind children is essential for support and guidance.
Advocacy is necessary in the education system to ensure that blind children receive the accommodations and services they need.
Involving the child in conversations about their needs and teaching them self-advocacy skills empowers them to navigate their own education and future.
Encouraging blind children to pursue their passions and participate in sports and extracurricular activities promotes independence and self-confidence.
Writing a book about one's journey can be a helpful resource for other parents going through similar experiences.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Shine Festival Recap
02:27 Introducing Kim Owens and Her Journey with Vision Loss
04:21 Impact of Vision Loss on Kim's Son and Family
06:14 Diagnosis and Challenges in Understanding the Condition
08:06 Finding Support and Acceptance in the Blind Community
09:28 Navigating the Education System as a Parent of a Blind Child
10:26 Encouraging Independence and Pursuit of Passions
12:22 Importance of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
14:13 Overcoming Fear and Allowing Children to Live Fully
15:56 Empowering Blind Children Through Inclusion and Accessibility
18:15 Supportive Community and Mentors in the Journey
20:06 Being an Advocate for Blind Children in Schools and Sports
22:01 Importance of Self-Advocacy and Involving the Child
24:30 Parenting Challenges and Resources for Support
26:56 Writing a Book on Navigating Blindness
29:48 Addressing Access Issues in Rideshare Services
30:47 Takeaways and Conclusion -
Summary
In this episode, host Kim Wardlow continues her conversation with Melissa Cermak from MSU Denver about the process for students with vision loss as they transition into college. They discuss the importance of proactive communication with the accessibility office, the accommodation eligibility appointment, and the need for documentation. They also explore the various tools and technologies available to students with vision loss, such as screen readers, magnification, and braille. Melissa emphasizes the importance of building a support network on campus, including professors, peers, and campus resources. They also discuss the opportunities for involvement in clubs, organizations, and student employment.
If you have a question for any of our upcoming guests, let us know by sending us your question to (720) 712-8856
Takeaways
Proactive communication with the accessibility office is crucial for students with vision loss as they transition into college.
The accommodation eligibility appointment is an opportunity for students to discuss their needs and determine the appropriate accommodations.
Students with vision loss can utilize tools and technologies such as screen readers, magnification, and braille to access content.
Building a support network on campus, including professors, peers, and campus resources, is important for success in college.
Involvement in clubs, organizations, and student employment can provide additional opportunities for connection and growth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Recap
02:05 Working with the Accessibility Office
06:14 Tools and Technologies for Access
17:12 Building a Support Network
21:24 Exploring Opportunities on Campus
26:20 Final Thoughts and Conclusion -
Summary
In this conversation, Kim Wardlow interviews Melissa Cermak from the Access Center at Metropolitan State University Denver. They discuss the services provided by the Access Center for students with disabilities, with a focus on students who are blind or have low vision. They also talk about the challenges students face when transitioning from high school to college and the importance of self-advocacy. Melissa provides practical advice for students and parents, including early planning and exploring college resources.
Takeaways
The Access Center at Metropolitan State University Denver provides academic accommodations and technology support for students with disabilities.
Students who are blind or have low vision may require additional accommodations, such as accessible course materials and tactile images.
Transitioning from high school to college can be challenging, and students need to develop self-advocacy skills and communicate their needs to faculty and staff.
Early planning and exploring college resources, such as open houses and informational sessions, can help students make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
03:00 Supporting Students with Disabilities in College
05:12 Challenges and Accommodations for Students who are Blind or Have Low Vision
09:04 Transitioning from High School to College: The Importance of Self-Advocacy
16:25 Practical Tips for Students and Parents: Early Planning and Exploring College Resources - Laat meer zien
