Thursday, April 14, 2011
Deaf Blind Workshop & Retreat
Hey guys! So the ITP and a few others just finished an incredible workshop about Deaf Blind people, SSP (support service providers), Deaf Blind etiquette, and all kinds of other things. I know, obviously, some of you weren't there, but for those of you who were -- what surprised you? What did you learn? And now, is there anything that you are more looking forward to for the retreat this weekend?
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Lindsey, I can definitely say I have learned a lot from the deaf blind workshop and retreat. This year was my first experience, and I will admit I was really nervous about the whole situation. However, going to deaf blind retreat and being an SSP has really helped me learn and grow in my development of working with deaf blind consumers. I am looking forward to next year and getting more practice with tactile interpreting!
ReplyDeleteI agree that the Deaf-Blind Workshop was phenomenal. I thoroughly enjoyed the presenters not just because of their fascinating ability to allow someone to sign in their hands and them get the full message but also for their very obvious friendship and support of one another. I think that it speaks volumes for Deaf-Blind people to present on how its best to become an adequate SSP. Another thing that spoke to me is their resilience. I complain about a lot of things in life and hesitate to laugh and enjoy life at times but one of the presenters had the most amazing personality and sense of humor. She enjoyed life in a dark silent world she saw the light. Thats hot.
ReplyDeleteI greatly enjoyed the Deaf-Blind workshop and retreat. It was my first substantial involvement with Deaf-Blind individuals and a good exposure to some of the issues they face everyday. During the retreat, I served as an SSP
ReplyDeletewith several individuals, each with unique characteristics and preferences. Because of the differences in mobility assistance that they each wanted, I learned to first check with them to find out how they liked to make use of their SSP. As they told us at the beginning of the retreat, "It's about them - not about you." And I agree with Keisha - the Deaf-Blind presenters from Seattle were very cool to meet and talk with - they are actively working to improve other's accessibility and lives - very inspiring. Overall, it was an excellent learning experience!
It was great! I feel like we're so lucky to have these kinds of opportunities available to us through EKU. It was pretty cool getting to see people we met last year and meet some new people too. I loved seeing Winston again (a retired golden retriever service dog). Tactile signing always amazes me. To be able to understand ASL so easily without seeing it is fascinating. I'm not sure if I'll be able to make it back next year depending on where I go, but I hope I can come back for it.
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