Craig goes running in the morning with a group of coworkers. A few months ago they invited Marc to join them.
“He gets along great with the guys at the office – but he’s blind. How’s he going to run with us? Seriously, he’s going to slam into a tree or something.”
Turns out, Marc is an experienced runner who sets the pace. Craig even serves as Marc’s sighted guide using a tether. It’s a role that keeps him motivated when Marc’s pre-dawn texts arrive like clockwork.
“We call him Drill Sergeant,” Craig said. “Who would have thought? A blind guy is kicking my butt.”
CHANGE THE WAY YOU SEE
If you are not sure if or how a blind friend would participate in an activity, just ask. All kinds of adapted sports are available for blind and sighted people, from tennis to skiing and much more. Blind people would rather be asked than excluded.
Whether it is to a book club, run, football game, outdoor adventure or your kid’s soccer game – invite a blind friend, neighbor or colleague to join in. Also, ask about what accommodations might be needed to make it all work, such as transportation.
Encourage your blind friend or neighbor to include you and the community in what they are doing. Offer your support to help bring others in and be there to help your friend integrate everyone into the activity.