Breaking Barriers: Inspiring Women on International Women's Day

Imagine traveling the world without the reassuring flash of a red stop sign or the ability to read the fine print on a medicine bottle. Daily activities like dodging banana peels or identifying Grandma's potato salad (sorry, Grandma!) become new experiences for people with visual impairments. Despite these challenges, a wellspring of creativity and resilience exists.

These challenges don't define or restrict them. Often accompanied by friends or guide dogs, people with visual impairments navigate daily life with remarkable creativity. Their resourcefulness and unwavering spirit inspire us all.

History is filled with examples of people with limited sight achieving remarkable feats, overcoming limitations, and breaking barriers. In honor of International Women's Day, let's celebrate women's invaluable contributions. Their triumphs over challenges prove their inner light shines brightly.

Join us as we learn about these remarkable women. Their determination is exemplary. Even seeing-eye pigeons deserve recognition.

Helen Keller (USA, 1880-1968)

All right, buckle up for the amazing story of Helen Keller, a firecracker born on June 27, 1880, in Alabama. An illness left her deaf and blind at a young age. Talk about a challenge! However, Helen, bless her heart, was not one to be kept down. Enter Anne Sullivan, a superstar teacher who became Helen's partner in crime fighting–well, knowledge-conquering, to be precise. By working together, they cracked the code of sign language, allowing Helen to open up a whole new world of possibilities. Helen was not playing around. Eventually, she became the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. That is quite an accomplishment! Helen did not stop there. She went on to become a world-renowned author, a champion for disability rights, and a lecturer who traveled the globe, leaving a trail of inspiration in her wake.

As Helen herself once said, "My life has been happy because I have had wonderful friends and plenty of interesting work to do." She truly focused on the positive. "I seldom think about my limitations, and they never make me sad," she continued. Despite challenges, she was able to remain positive. "Perhaps there is just a touch of yearning at times," she admitted, "but it is vague, like a breeze among flowers. The wind passes, and the flowers are content." 

In 1955, Helen Keller, a champion for disability rights, passed away; however, her legacy endures. On the occasion of her 138th birthday, a digital archive of her works was launched. It is designed to be particularly accessible, allowing users with a wide range of disabilities access to its contents. She's an inspiration for the fight for a more inclusive world, and her story exemplifies the power of perseverance and advocacy.

Sabriye Tenberken (Germany, 1970-Present)

Imagine Sabriye Tenberken, a young girl with retinitis pigmentosa experiencing slow loss of vision. Despite this, her fire didn't dim. Throughout her time at Bonn University, she excelled in Central Asian Studies and the languages that brought the cultures to life-Mongolian, Chinese, and Tibetan. As Sabriye witnessed Tibet's blind children suffering in darkness, she refused to remain silent. She invented Braille for Tibet with a heart full of empathy, bringing light to countless people who had been forgotten. There is more to her story. In 1997, she traveled solo to Tibet and developed a passion for it. From that spark, the Lhasa Centre for the Blind emerged as a beacon of hope for isolated children, their futures bursting with possibilities. As soon as Braille Without Borders launched, geographical boundaries were shattered and opportunities were expanded. However, Sabriye's vision was not confined to national borders. Her organization, Kanthari International (in India), empowers people from all walks of life, especially those who face social neglect because of disabilities. Her unwavering commitment has been recognized by the World Time Magazine European HERO award and Nobel Peace Prize nominations are testaments to her achievements. Tenberken's story shows how human potential is limitless. In addition to her education, innovation, and sheer determination, she has left an indelible legacy of hope and empowerment in the lives of countless people.

Harriet Tubman (USA, 1822-1913)

Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in Maryland and became an iconic figure in American history. Despite not being born blind, Tubman suffered a severe head injury as a teenager that may have contributed to her visual impairment. Through the Underground Railroad, Tubman was able to lead enslaved people to freedom despite this obstacle. A legend in the fight against slavery in the United States, Tubman was known as the "Moses of her people." During the Civil War, Tubman served as a cook, nurse, and scout for the Union Army. The first woman to lead an armed military operation in the United States is widely credited with her leadership during the raid at Combahee Ferry, which liberated more than 700 enslaved people. Additionally, she was an advocate for civil rights and a leader in the women's suffrage movement. As a testament to the power of the human spirit, Tubman's courage and resilience have become an inspiration to many.

Trischa Zorn (USA, 1964-present)

Think of a world unseen, yet a spirit that was burning brightly. On June 1, 1964, Trischa Zorn was born blind in Orange County, California. She painted a masterpiece of success on the water with her determination and the water as the canvas. In 1980, at the age of 16, she burst onto the world stage as a water-forged champion. Her relentless pursuit of excellence resulted in an impressive seven gold medals on her debut. It was just the beginning of a record-breaking career. As a result of her unwavering commitment, she won an unprecedented 55 medals over seven Paralympic games. But Trischa was not just a champion in the water; she was the first visually impaired swimmer to receive a Division I scholarship on land. Despite personal storms, such as losing her mother before the 2004 Olympics, her fire was unquenchable. Trischa Zorn's story continues to inspire people today. Her journey whispers that obstacles are stepping stones, and with unwavering determination, anything is possible. The legacy she leaves behind isn't confined to the pool; it is a beacon of hope, inspiring generations to defy limits and achieve greatness.

Teresa Fay Gibbs (USA, 1954-present)

Music and unwavering determination are the driving forces behind the story. Despite being blind since infancy, she was drawn to melody at a young age, dancing her fingers across piano keys at the age of three. Throughout her childhood, music guided her, and by the age of 17, she was opening for country legend Bill Anderson. Despite her blindness, her parents instilled in her the belief that she deserved no less than anyone else, urging her to chase her dreams with the same fervor as anyone else. Life's challenges couldn't dim her spirit. After graduating alongside sighted classmates, she bravely pursued her dreams in Nashville. Though initial record deals fell through, her powerful, soulful voice wouldn't be silenced. In 1980, "Somebody's Knockin" became her breakout hit, a crossover sensation that landed her on the Grand Ole Opry stage. Awards like the Academy of Country Music's Best New Female Vocalist and the Country Music Association's inaugural Horizon Award cemented her status as a rising star. Terri's journey transcended chart-topping hits. She navigated the evolving music landscape, even venturing into Contemporary Christian music. Her legacy lives on, inspiring countless musicians with her spirit and voice, a testament to overcoming obstacles and chasing dreams.

Diane Schuur (USA, 1953-Present)

An inspiration not only because of her music, but also because of her resilience, multi-Grammy award-winning pianist Diane Schuur is a force to be reckoned with on the keys. She was born prematurely in 1953, and complications took away her sight, but music became her guiding light. When she was four, her tiny fingers danced across the piano keys, composing a melody with her father. Diane's debut album, "Pilot of My Destiny," arrived in 1978, despite a bumpy distribution start. As she honed her craft, she caught the attention of the music world. Her remarkable talent even earned her a chance to share a stage with the legendary blind pianist Ray Charles in 1998. As a jazz powerhouse, she received five Grammy nominations and two wins in 1986 and 1987. To this day, Diane's fingers continue to weave magic on the piano, captivating audiences across the country with her music.

Haben Girma (USA, 1988-present)

People with disabilities can achieve incredible things, just like Haben Girma, who became the first deafblind Harvard Law School graduate. Despite Girma's deafblindness, she built a rich collection of experiences throughout her life. Without these crucial senses, it would be impossible to learn, communicate, and navigate a world. Yet, Girma's determination burned bright. With the help of accessible technology, like digital Braille devices, and unwavering support from her family, she thrived in mainstream schools. Her journey wasn't without challenges. Advocating for her right to accessible options in the school cafeteria at Lewis & Clark College was just one example. But Girma's tenacity wouldn't be deterred. Her legal career blossomed from a desire to make information accessible to everyone. Adventurous spirit aside (surfing, rock climbing, etc.), Girma began her legal career advocating for disability rights in 2013 (Disability Rights Advocates, Berkeley). She tackled giants like Scribd, successfully advocating for blind users to access ebooks. Girma's fight extends beyond legal battles. On prestigious platforms like TED, she confronts accessibility issues head-on, demanding captions for all talks, including her own. This isn't just about her; it's about dismantling barriers for millions.

Girma's story goes beyond overcoming limitations. The goal is to redefine what's possible. Her adventurous spirit and ability to snowboard, climb, and dance are testaments to her capacity for joy and an active lifestyle. Despite immense obstacles, Girma is a symbol of hope, a fierce advocate, and a reminder that the human spirit can soar.

Marla Runyan (USA, 1969-present)

Marla Lee Runyan, an American track and field athlete, road runner, and marathon runner, has defied all odds with her remarkable achievements despite being legally blind. Born on January 4, 1969, in Santa Maria, California, Runyan's athletic prowess became evident early on, leading her to compete in various events ranging from the heptathlon to the 800-meter run. After earning her master's degree in the Education of Deafblind Children in 1994, she embarked on a groundbreaking career that saw her excel in both Paralympic and Olympic competitions. At the 1992 Summer Paralympics, she clinched four gold medals, and her journey continued as she pursued her dream of competing in able-bodied events. Her success at the 1999 Pan American Games and the 2000 Sydney Olympics solidified her status as a world-class runner. Despite facing numerous challenges, including her battle with blindness, Runyan's resilience and determination propelled her to victory, earning her multiple national championships and recognition as the USATF "Runner of the Year" in 2002 and 2006. Her remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to all, proving that with perseverance and grit, anything is possible.

Tilly Aston (Australia, 1873-1947)

Exploring a world covered in darkness, but alive with possibilities, awaits us. That was the world of Tilly Aston, a trailblazer who defied blindness to become a beacon of hope for countless others. Born in 1873, Tilly's sight dimmed by the age of seven, but her spirit burned ever brighter. With a thirst for knowledge, she devoured Braille, becoming the first blind Australian to grasp a university education. Though those studies were cut short by a lack of accessible materials, Tilly's determination wouldn't be contained. In 1894, armed with unwavering optimism and a network of supportive friends, Tilly co-founded the Victorian Association of Braille Writers. This wasn't just a group; it was the seed of a movement, one that would blossom into the Victorian Braille Library, a haven of knowledge for the visually impaired. Tilly's relentless advocacy wasn't limited to books. She became a prolific writer herself, particularly of poetry and prose sketches, though her writing was often interrupted by her teaching and other activities. In 1904, she won the Prahran City Council's competition for an original story, and several books followed after that. Her writings were also serialized in Victorian newspapers, and for 12 years, she edited and contributed to a braille magazine for Chinese mission schools, A Book of Opals. She had eight volumes of verse published in Melbourne between 1901 and 1940, including notable works such as "Maiden Verses" (1901), "The Austral Year" (191-?), "Singable Songs" (1924), "Songs of Light" (1935), and "The Inner Garden" (1940). Her poetry books captured the essence of her experiences and perspectives, offering solace and inspiration to readers around the world.

Additionally, Tilly Aston ventured into fiction, with notable works including "The Woolinappers, or Some Tales from the By-ways of Methodism" (1905), "The Straight Goer" (serialized in Spectator from September 1908), and "Gold from Old Diggings" (serialized in Bendigo Advertiser from August 1937). Through her fiction, Aston transported readers to worlds both familiar and fantastical, weaving tales that resonated with themes of resilience, compassion, and the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity.

Laura Bridgman (USA, 1829-1889)

Laura Bridgman's story is a tribute to the human spirit. As a blind and deaf child, she was at risk of being lost in the darkness. Her desire for knowledge ignited an insatiable flame of hope. At the Perkins Institute, a young Laura, barely eight, embarked on a remarkable journey. With the kindness of her teacher, Miss Lydia Hall Drew, they unlocked the power of communication through touch, a bridge leading Laura out of isolation.

Laura's progress was nothing short of miraculous. From deciphering raised letters to mastering the manual alphabet, she built a connection to the world. Her story, immortalized by Charles Dickens, transformed her into a guiding star, a symbol of hope for those trapped in silence. Though fame eventually faded, Laura's legacy endured. She paved the way for countless others, like Helen Keller, and found solace in a life of quiet purpose – sharing knowledge, cherishing friendships, and finding contentment in the simple joys of life. Laura Bridgman's story reminds us that even a flickering candle can illuminate the deepest darkness.

Christine Hà (USA, 1979-Present)

It's hard to miss Christine Ha's life story. It's spicy, unpredictable, and guaranteed to warm your heart. Born on May 9th, 1979, in Los Angeles County, California, Christine faced her fair share of hurdles, losing her vision to an autoimmune disease in her twenties. But did that slow her down? Not a chance! Armed with a business degree and a Master's in writing, she showed the world she was more than just a whiz in the kitchen – she had brains to match her culinary prowess. Then came the jaw-dropper: Masterchef. No fancy culinary school diploma, yet Christine waltzed her way to victory in season 3, leaving Gordon Ramsay and the gang speechless (well, almost). This wasn't just a win; it was the start of a culinary rollercoaster tastier than a plate of perfectly cooked duck confit. Suddenly, Christine was not just cooking – she was writing cookbooks, inspiring crowds with her motivational speeches, and even hosting a cooking show for those who couldn't tell a roux from a kangaroo (well, almost).

But wait, there's more! Christine became a culinary ambassador, globe-trotting like a seasoned foodie pro. Back in Houston, she didn't just talk the talk – she opened The Blind Goat, a Vietnamese gastropub named with a nod to her visual impairment, and critics couldn't get enough. And who could forget Xin Chao, her culinary collaboration that mixed Vietnamese heritage with Texas flair – it's like fusion cuisine, but with a lot more sass! Christine Ha's story isn't just about cooking up a storm; it's about turning life's lemons into a delectable lemon meringue pie. So, next time you feel like life's throwing you a rotten egg, just remember Christine – she'll show you how to whip up a mean omelet and have a good laugh while doing it!

Even when challenges arise, the world is full of possibilities. Despite their vision loss, these talented women achieved incredible feats. Humanity endures through their stories. By persevering, being optimistic, and taking a deep breath, anyone can strive to achieve anything they set their mind to. You'll face obstacles, but you'll also discover joy and happiness. Be inspired by these women's strengths and let your unique talents shine through. Don't worry, you've got this!