Navigating Life with Vision Loss

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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

Summary

In this episode, host Kim Wardlow discusses the topic of education and preparing for school with Cindy Price, an educator with extensive experience in K-12 teaching and administration. They cover the challenges faced by students at the start of the school year, such as finding classrooms, lockers, and navigating schedules. They also discuss the importance of early identification of vision issues and brain processing issues that may affect learning. They emphasize the need for clear communication and collaboration between parents, teachers, and school staff to support students' needs. They provide tips for parents on advocating for their child and suggest resources for further support.

Takeaways

The start of the school year can be challenging for students, especially those with vision impairments. They may struggle with finding classrooms, lockers, and navigating schedules.

Early identification of vision issues and brain processing issues is crucial for providing appropriate support to students.

Clear communication and collaboration between parents, teachers, and school staff are essential for addressing students' needs.

Parents can advocate for their child by actively participating in IEP meetings, requesting re-evaluations, and maintaining open lines of communication with teachers.

There are resources available for teachers to receive training and support in better serving students with vision impairments.

Establishing a structured homework routine and providing a conducive learning environment at home can help students succeed academically.

Cross-body exercises, such as doing a figure eight with both arms, can strengthen brain connections and improve learning abilities.

Parents can reach out to state disability websites and organizations for additional resources and support.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

04:34 Challenges Faced by Students at the Start of the School Year

07:02 Preparing Students for School: Communication and Preparation

11:27 Identifying and Addressing Vision and Brain Processing Issues

17:13 Importance of Communication and Collaboration

20:17 Advocating for Students' Needs

22:27 Creating a Conducive Learning Environment at Home

24:30 Strengthening Brain Connections through Cross-Body Exercises

26:27 Resources and Support for Teachers

28:25 Tips for Advocating for Your Child's Needs

31:11 Closing Thoughts and Thanks

Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating life with vision loss. If you have any questions for an upcoming guest, let us know. (720) 712-8856, or you can email us at [email protected].

Summary

In this episode, host Kim Wardlow interviews Ethan Johnson, a co-host of Game Changers and a skilled player in Beatball. They discuss adaptive sports and the benefits they provide for individuals with vision loss. Ethan shares his personal story of losing his vision and how adaptive sports have played a therapeutic role in his life. They also talk about the importance of advocacy and finding accessible sports facilities. The conversation concludes with a discussion about inclusive social activities and the importance of communication and inclusivity.

Takeaways

Adaptive sports provide physical, mental, and social benefits for individuals with vision loss.

Advocacy is important in finding accessible sports facilities and equipment.

Inclusive social activities can be adapted to accommodate individuals with different levels of vision loss.

Communication and inclusivity are key in making sports and social activities accessible for everyone.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Accessible Activities

05:37 Ethan's Personal Story and Journey with Vision Loss

11:10 Benefits of Adaptive Sports

15:22 Finding Adaptive Sports and Facilities

17:12 Inclusive Social Activities

22:35 Advocating for Accessibility in Sports Facilities

25:55 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Thank you for listening to this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss if you have any questions for Kim or any of our other host, please email us at [email protected] or we can give us a phone call at 720-712-8856 thanks and have a great week!

Summary

Shawn Satterfield, the founder of Shine Music Festival, discusses the importance of creating fully accessible music festivals. She explains that while many events meet the minimal requirements for accessibility, they often only consider physical mobility and overlook other disabilities. Shawn shares her personal experience of feeling excluded from ADA sections at concerts and highlights the need for a better approach to accessibility. She emphasizes the importance of creating experiences that are inclusive for individuals with various disabilities, including visual, hearing, and neurodiverse impairments. Shawn also discusses the initiatives and technologies implemented at Shine Music Festival to enhance accessibility, such as sensory zones, silent disco headphones, closed caption glasses, and braille on concert t-shirts. She encourages other event organizers to think inclusively and involve individuals with disabilities in the planning process. Shawn concludes by expressing her hope that Shine Music Festival serves as a testing ground for new technologies and inspires other events to prioritize accessibility.

Takeaways

Many music festivals only meet the minimal requirements for accessibility, focusing primarily on physical mobility and neglecting other disabilities.

Creating fully accessible music festivals requires considering the needs of individuals with visual, hearing, and neurodiverse impairments.

Initiatives such as sensory zones, silent disco headphones, closed caption glasses, and braille on concert t-shirts can enhance accessibility at music festivals.

Involving individuals with disabilities in the planning process and seeking their feedback is crucial for creating inclusive experiences.

Shine Music Festival serves as a model for other events to prioritize accessibility and inspire the use of new technologies.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Excitement

02:31 The Need for an Accessible Music Festival

08:40 Addressing Different Accessibility Needs

14:13 Incorporating Accessibility at Shine Music Festival

24:38 Ticket Information and Volunteer Opportunities

25:08 Barriers to Accessibility in the Music Industry

31:29 The Importance of Trying and Seeking Feedback

35:17 The Role of Volunteers in Making Events Accessible

37:39 Final Thoughts and Call for Feedback

Thank you for checking out NLVL. If you have questions, call us at (720) 712-8856 or email us at [email protected]. Have a great week and we'll see you on the hike!