From: Mary Shandrow 
Subject: Re: Parade article: Why did this child go Blind?
This iw an interesting question that I have asked myself many times.  I
think that sighted parents of blind children at first react defensively on
behalf of their children.  I think that especially in the case of ROP they
want to blame someone.  I think that only through organizations such as the
parents of blind children can parents eventually to grips with their
child's disability.  
I think it is also important to cansider the angle this article was written
from.  Many journalists find it very difficult not to color these stories
with the "fate worse than death" philosophy.  This is only because they are
sadly misinformed about blindness.  I think it is important for us who have
accepted our blindness to portray as positive an image as we can.
I have made it a goal in my life to try to change the way blind children
view themselves.  If we can help them form a postivie self-image, then they
will eventually be able to bring their parents around, but even if they
don't at least they believe in themselves.  
One way I am trying to meet this goal is by beginning a program for 8-12
year old blind children.  We will focus on daily living skills
training,outdoor community activities, and building self-esteem.  I
eventually hope to become a teacher of blind choldren, so that I can help
change the world they are growing up in.  My dream is that I will help at
least one child.  If I can do that, then I have made my dream come true,
and hopefully convinced a child that they can do the same.
Mary Shandrow
---
---------------