Navigating Blindness From Isolation to Inclusion with Kim Owens
Jan 31, 2023
For many teenagers, turning 16 is synonymous with gaining independence through driving. For Kai, who couldn't drive, Kim and her family decided to reframe the milestone in a way that celebrated his independence differently.
“We tried to approach it like, you don’t get to drive, but you get a lot more freedom now,” Kim shared. They extended Kai’s curfew and encouraged him to travel independently with friends. On his birthday, Kai proudly stood in front of the driver’s license services sign, not with a driver’s license but with his white cane and state ID.
This moment was symbolic: Kai was stepping into a new phase of independence, albeit on his own terms. Later, he attended a skimboarding competition and even took his first parent-free trip to New York for a summit with other blind individuals. These experiences fueled Kai’s confidence, reminding him—and his family—that independence comes in many forms.
Overcoming Challenges in College
Kai’s transition to college was marked by excitement and an unexpected challenge. Shortly before starting at the University of Georgia, Kai broke his leg at a blind skateboarding gathering. Despite the injury, Kai was determined to begin his college journey, navigating campus with a boot cast, crutches, and his white cane.
Kim initially worried about the obstacles, but Kai adapted quickly. “Day one, he called me, and he’s like, ‘You won’t believe what happened.’” A fellow student helped him when he lost his balance, and they became fast friends.
By his sophomore year, Kai had gained even more independence, thanks to his guide dog, Pride. Living three hours away from home, Kai balances life with two roommates, a guide dog, and all the responsibilities of college.
However, new challenges arose. Kai frequently faced ride refusals from rideshare services due to his guide dog. Kim and her family began advocating for change, filing complaints with the Department of Justice and connecting with organizations like the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). “It’s an ongoing battle, but it’s one Kai is determined to fight,” Kim said.
Lessons Learned and Advice for Parents and Providers
Kim’s journey has taught her the importance of community, advocacy, and celebrating every step of progress. For parents of blind or visually impaired children, she offers three key pieces of advice:
- Get Support: Seek out therapists, support groups, and mentors early on. Having a strong network makes a world of difference.
- Nurture Interests: If your child shows an interest in something, help make it accessible. Whether it’s skateboarding or music, these hobbies can become a source of confidence and joy.
- Set High Expectations: Every child has unlimited potential. Trust their abilities and provide them with tools to succeed.
Kim also stresses the importance of professionals acknowledging their own limitations and connecting families with specialized resources. “When our TVI recognized that Kai’s skills were surpassing her expertise, she brought in experts who could help him excel further,” Kim shared.
A Moment of Acceptance
One of the most poignant moments in Kim’s journey came unexpectedly. Watching Kai and his orientation and mobility instructor crossing the street one day, Kim was hit with a wave of grief. “I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, my son is blind,’” she recalled.
But then she looked closer. Kai was smiling, confidently navigating his path with his cane. “I realized that the things I was sad about weren’t even real. He was independent, happy, and thriving.”
This moment encapsulates the ongoing process of acceptance. It’s a reminder that while grief and worry may resurface, there is always an opportunity to reframe and celebrate progress.
Looking Ahead
Today, Kim uses her platform, NavigatingBlindness, to advocate for accessibility and share her family’s story. She’s also working on a memoir, set to be released soon, which will serve as a guide for other parents navigating similar journeys.
“Our story is about community, resilience, and seeing the unlimited potential in every child,” Kim said. “I hope it inspires others to build a life of independence and joy for their children.”
For more updates and resources, follow Kim on Instagram and Facebook at @NavigatingBlindness. Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive world for all.
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