Blind and Visually Impaired Community
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Has anyone thought about starting virtual support groups comprised of blind redditors? (self.Blind)
submitted by kelpangler
I already participate in a support group provided by a place called the Braille Institute here in LA. I really appreciate the group but at the same time I feel like I don’t fit in. Being honest, I think it’s our age difference because almost all are in their 60s to 80s. There’s so much wisdom there but I wonder if they get me. A few weeks ago someone was talking about the Great Depression haha.
I’m wondering if people here would participate in a regular support group since Reddit kinda ties us together. Safety would be paramount. I know anonymity is probably an issue as well as making sure we have certified blind people and not someone who is sighted. Also the number of people since this is the Internet could be difficult to manage. Lastly, it might be important to have a trained moderator.
Anyway, I’d like to hear your thoughts and if you’d be interested.
Note: If you want to participate then send an email to blindredditors@gmail.com.
Note #2: I’m getting your responses! Thanks for your patience.
I’m wondering if people here would participate in a regular support group since Reddit kinda ties us together. Safety would be paramount. I know anonymity is probably an issue as well as making sure we have certified blind people and not someone who is sighted. Also the number of people since this is the Internet could be difficult to manage. Lastly, it might be important to have a trained moderator.
Anyway, I’d like to hear your thoughts and if you’d be interested.
Note: If you want to participate then send an email to blindredditors@gmail.com.
Note #2: I’m getting your responses! Thanks for your patience.
CosmicBunny97 6 points 2y ago
This is a good idea. There really needs to be more support for blind young adults, honestly.
kelpangler [OP] 1 points 2y ago
I wouldn’t say I’m exactly “young” (I have a daughter in high school) but it’s in the ballpark. It could start out as something general and then adjust as needed.
DrillInstructorJan 3 points 2y ago
I know what you mean about the age difference, when I first lost my sight I felt like I was the only person on the planet who wasn't either born blind or five thousand years old. I already talk to people on and offline and I'd totally get involved.
kelpangler [OP] 1 points 2y ago
Yeah I appreciate the war stories but if I have to hear another complaint about “kids these days”… haha. Although I do that with my kids. It’s a never-ending cycle as long as there are younger people to complain about.
For people you’ve met on here donyou mean you general socialization or specifically for support
For people you’ve met on here donyou mean you general socialization or specifically for support
Amonwilde 2 points 2y ago
I'd kind of like something for high-functioning blind people, if that makes sense. I guess put me on a list of you make one.
CosmicBunny97 1 points 2y ago
What do you mean by high functioning?
Amonwilde 1 points 2y ago
Like, I guess, has the basics down. Can use a screen reader. Can use a cane if needed. Employed or actively seeking employment or retired from employment or training. Is independent or semi-independent.
Basically, I'm on here a lot answering questions and there's other great people answering questions. But a lot of blind people are kind of either new to things or a bit checked out or have big other problems that don't relate to blindness. I'm probably elitist for wanting this but I'd like to be the one learning from someone, you know?
Basically, I'm on here a lot answering questions and there's other great people answering questions. But a lot of blind people are kind of either new to things or a bit checked out or have big other problems that don't relate to blindness. I'm probably elitist for wanting this but I'd like to be the one learning from someone, you know?
CosmicBunny97 1 points 2y ago
Oh yeah, I definitely get it. I think it’ll be good to have a range of experiences, maybe like an informal mentoring thing.
kelpangler [OP] 1 points 2y ago
For sure! Lemme figure out a few details. I’ll reach out to you and a few others soon.
MzHydra-Nix 2 points 2y ago
It only takes two people to start a group, you and the person who responded, so, there you go. Make it happen
kelpangler [OP] 1 points 2y ago
I’d like to formalize it a bit more and find maybe 8-10 people to round out the conversation. It should’nt be too hard to find that right?
MzHydra-Nix 1 points 2y ago
I’ve heard someone say that if you wait till everything is perfect then you may not ever get started. So I say if you have one to two people, start the group and let it grow as you grow. This is what Nike meant by “just do it”
kelpangler [OP] 1 points 2y ago
Yup fair enough!
BexTheMixer 1 points 2y ago
Is it just for older people? I'm 21.
kelpangler [OP] 1 points 2y ago
I hope not! I don’t specifically know the ages so far but I think we have a couple in their 20s. Just being on in terms of commonalities, being on Reddit probably provides more than just being blind would. I’ll send you a message.
BexTheMixer 1 points 2y ago
Ok.
HealthyChoice1363 1 points 2y ago
Count me in also
kelpangler [OP] 1 points 2y ago
I’m finding it difficult to keep track of the communications here on Reddit. Instead you can email me at blindredditors@gmail.com and we’ll figure it out. Thank you.
retrolental_morose 1 points 2y ago
Count me in.
kelpangler [OP] 1 points 2y ago
Sending you a message.
Vwave 1 points 2y ago
Add me as well, Thank you
kelpangler [OP] 1 points 2y ago
Sending you a message.
siriuslylupin6 1 points 2y ago
Create a sub I can’t find how to do it or I’ve had done it cant seem to do one in dystopia. We were talking on another thread that there’s so much going on here. Blind people asking blind people questions, sighted people asking questions, students and companies doing research, everything gets lost in the shuffle.
Bookjeans 1 points 2y ago
I’d love to join
kelpangler [OP] 1 points 2y ago
Ok message coming your way!
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