The following is a list of supports I use so that I can successfully make it through each day.
1) My Alarm Clock - even though I am often awake when the music starts playing, my alarm clock tells me it is time to begin my day. If I do not have an alarm set it means I can stay where I am until my daughter gets me out of bed!
2) My Routine - My typical day has a basic routine or time table that I follow. I like my routine and it can be frustrating to me if I can not follow it. My routine is the basic structure of my day.
3) My Daily Plan - This is different then my routine which is a basic time table. This is a list either written or in my head of what specifically needs to be completed during a particular day and how I am going to get it done.
4) My Calendar - My electronic calendar keeps me organized and on schedule. It reminds me when and where I need to be. It supports my ability to make a plan for each day/week.
5) My Car - My car takes me from point A to point B. It allows me to get to work, a meeting, the grocery store, to my daughter's school, or anywhere else I need to be throughout the day.
6) My Family - My relationship with my family gives me emotional fuel especially when my life gets really crazy. A hug, a smile, or a friendly reminder that I need to get something done are all ways I feel supported by my family.
7) My Co-workers - My co-workers lend support in the work place. We share ideas, collaborate on projects, give each other breaks, and brainstorm how to best support the children and families in our program.
8) My Computer - My computer allows me to communicate with colleagues, family and friends. It gives me access to Walden University and my classes. It houses my calendar. It gives me access to all sorts of information.
9) Spell Check - I have always had a difficult time with spelling words correctly and often changed the word I wanted to use for one with less meaning because I could spell it. Between my course work and my volunteer work I find that I am writing a lot at this time in my life. With spell check on my computer, my Ipad and my phone, I can write confidently knowing I have an electronic support to help me spell. (I still stump the spell check on a regular basis!)
As I was reflecting on my life and the supports that help me maintain daily success, I could not help imagining how things would be different if I was visually challenged. Many of the electronic supports I currently count on daily, an alarm clock, a calendar, and a computer would still be available but they would be specialized equipment that would require the support of specially trained people to set them up, maintain them and continually teach and update me on how to use them.
To move around my home, my work place and my community, I could imagine having the support of specially trained dog. A trained dog would allow for my continued independence while keeping me safe from harm... like tripping over a snow boot left in the hallway at the preschool or being hit by car when crossing the street. A dog would also be a constant companion.
I would have to have the support of a system to transport me from my home to places around the community. Without some sort of transportation plan I would not be able to leave my home which would be very confining. I think this would be something I would personally find very challenging as I like to count on myself for transportation back and forth from my home.
Finally, I would have to have a great support system of people. I would need specially trained teachers to help me learn to read and communicate in a way that I do not currently know. I would need specially trained technicians to maintain my electronic equipment that is specific to my situation. I would need special trainers for my dog. And finally I would need a family and friends that could celebrate my successes and cheer me on when I was challenged.
