Maine-Lines - June 2022

Maine Department of Labor sent this bulletin at 06/16/2022 08:00 AM EDT

DDHHLD Director’s Report-Terry Morrell
DeafBlind Awareness Week June 27 to July 2, 2022
An Interview with Tara Brown-Ogilvie, Regional Representative, Helen Keller National Center (HKNC)
An Interview with Sook Hee Choi, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
National Resources on Deafblindness
An Interview with Alicia Stevens, Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired
An Interview with Aisha Smith - IRIS Network
An Interview with Scott Murray – Disability Rights Maine (DRM), Deaf-Blind Program Coordinator
Maine DeafBlind/Dual-Sensory Impaired Resources
An Interview with Regan Thibodeau and Judy Shepard-Kegl, University Southern Maine (USM), Independence Without Fear Program
An Interview with Danny Langlois
An Interview with Patty Sarchi
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DDHHLD Director’s Report-Terry Morrell

Hope this finds everyone doing well.

We are excited to finally be able to share the 2021 Annual Deaf Culture Tea Awards video with you. We hope you enjoy the video.

Here is the link for the 2021 Annual Deaf Culture Tea Awards:

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/kl17ywymafqcopl/AAATuYOlqd4TlaqPmMsLN0wRa?dl=0&preview=BRG_ME_0001_AnnualDeafCultureTeaAwards_OC_STD_220329+(1).mp4

For the 2022 Annual Deaf Culture Tea Awards we are excited that we will have student, Marlaco Bethune, and Early Intervention American Sign Language Specialist for Maine Educational Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Melinda Smith Meyers, as our keynote speakers. We are looking forward to the 2022 Annual Deaf Culture Tea Awards. If you have you recognized someone that contributes their time, energy, and passion to Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community? You may feel that they deserve recognition? You can nominate them for Annual Deaf Culture Tea Awards!!

You can use the link below to fill out the form. Feel free to contact Terry Morrell, Sitara Sheikh or Nancy Winter if you have any questions. https://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/attach.php?id=65661&an=1

We would also like to share the link to our DDHHLD website where you can find our resource guide and more information. https://www.maine.gov/rehab/dod/

We are excited to share with you a Model State Plan (MSP) that was developed by the Deaf Professionals Network (DPN) through the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR). The Deaf Professionals Network which is under CSAVR worked together to update the MSP. The purpose of this MSP is to provide a guide/map related to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals. Also, there was a summit on April 27 and 28, 2022 where Rehabilitation Counselors for the Deaf (RCD) also joined the discussion. Please see the links below to see the full MSP and the national top 10 priorities.

MSP for Deaf Services | csavr

2cb546_5f52781f7f4c4bec8ee03bb95e93496d.pdf (csavr.org)

We would like to share that June 27-July 2, 2022 is DeafBlind Awareness Week. To coincide with this, we have interviews with Patty Sarchi, Danny Langlois, Alicia Stevens, DBVI, Tara Brown-Ogilvie, HKNC, Sook Hee Choi, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Scott Murray, DRM Deaf-Blind Program Coordinator, Aisha Smith, The Iris Network and Regan Thibodeau and Judy Shepard-Kegl, USM, Independence Without Fear Program. Please enjoy the interviews and the resources for DeafBlind and dual-sensory impaired individuals.

DeafBlind Awareness Week June 27 to July 2, 2022

An Interview with Tara Brown-Ogilvie, Regional Representative, Helen Keller National Center (HKNC)

Professional headshot of Tara, a white woman in her early 30s with curly blonde hair posing in a blazer and button up blouse against an artsy background.

https://www.helenkeller.org/hknc

Can you tell us about yourself, your role or position?

My role as the New England Regional Representative is to act as a liaison between New England state agencies, families, and individuals who are DeafBlind with the HKNC headquarters in Sands Point, NY. I work in the states of ME, NH, VT, CT, RI, and reside in MA. This role also includes being a point of contact for local, state, and national resources.

I have over 10 years of experience working in the field of DeafBlindness as a sign language interpreter, vision rehabilitation therapist, and certified orientation and mobility specialist. I am also a doctoral candidate working on a Ph.D. in Special Education with an emphasis in DeafBlindness.

Can you tell us about your program and who you or your program serves?

Helen Keller Services is a non-profit organization that acts as a lifelong point of contact to support those who are DeafBlind starting at the age of 14. We serve individuals with combined vision and hearing loss including transition age youth, working adults, older adults, and those with additional disabilities to support them in living their best life in their community of choice. This can include referral services, residential training in NY, consulting with state agencies, advocacy, and at times direct community services.

How does an individual qualify for your program?

Over the age of 14 with a documented vision and hearing loss that meets the Helen Keller Act definition of DeafBlindness that includes a diverse range of dual sensory loss (ex. Blind/Hard of Hearing, Deaf with Low Vision, Low Vision and Hard of Hearing with a progressive condition, etc.)

What services does your program provide?

For families of youth who are DeafBlind (14-22) we provide information/resources, consultation, referral services, and advocacy.
For young adults (14-22) we have summer youth programing in NY that focuses on Pre-ETS along with transition support services on a consultative basis.
For working adults (18-65+) we offer comprehensive residential training in NY or now online that covers the areas of communication (braille, sign language, haptics), assistive technology, orientation and mobility, independent living, vocational services, and recreational activities.
For older adults (65+) we have specialized programming that focuses on the same areas with a greater emphasis on access for those with age related vision and hearing loss.
For state agencies and professionals, we provide collaborative opportunities, consult services, and professional development training in working with individuals who are DeafBlind.

What do you feel is important for people to know about DeafBlindness or those with Dual-Sensory Impairment?

I feel that awareness that someone can have both vision and hearing loss is important. That can lead to asking questions and leaning more from the individuals with dual sensory themselves about the best ways to provide equitable access.

An Interview with Sook Hee Choi, LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired

https://lhblind.org/our-programs/deafblind-program/

Can you tell us about yourself, your role or position?

My name is Sook Hee Choi. I’m a DeafBlind Specialist and have been with LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired since 2001.

Can you tell us about your program and who you or your program serves?

I am a Certified Orientation and Mobility and Vision Rehabilitation Instructor. The DeafBlind Program at the Lighthouse offers communication skills training, orientation and mobility training, independent living skills, and adaptive technology training, etc. In addition, Lighthouse helps run the Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (DBEDP)--sometimes called iCC in other states—of California and offers a DeafBlind session at Enchanted Hills Camp in Napa, California.

How does an individual qualify for your program?

Anyone residing in California who has vision loss and is deaf or hard-of-hearing can benefit from the DeafBlind program at Lighthouse. There are fees for services and training, and most clients have an open case with the Department of Rehabilitation. If an individual is 55 years old or older, lives in an eligible California county, and do not have a case open with the Department of Rehabilitation, they can receive training on a limited basis for free.

For the DBEDP of California, individuals must meet the Federal Communications Commission’s disability and income requirements to be eligible.

What do you feel is important for people to know about DeafBlindness or those with Dual-Sensory Impairment?

People should know that DeafBlindness prevents the DeafBlind person from accessible communication and interacting with people. With proper resources and training, DeafBlind individuals can maintain their independence.

Contact Information:

Sook Hee Choi
schoi@lighthouse-sf.org
VP: 510-356-0018

National Resources on Deafblindness

The National Family Association for DeafBlind

https://www.nfadb.org/What-We-Do

Usher Syndrome Coalition: https://www.usher-syndrome.org/
National Center on Deaf-Blindness: https://www.nationaldb.org/
American Association of the Deaf-Blind; http://www.aadb.org/

An Interview with Alicia Stevens, Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Can you tell us about yourself, your role or position?

My name is Alicia Stevens, and I am a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS). I work for the State of Maine in the Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI). I work with people of all ages and abilities. As an Orientation and Mobility (O&M) instructor I teach individuals with vision impairments how to safely navigate any environment including their homes, schools, communities, and workplaces with confidence. O&M specialists can also be a part of the process to help a student get paired with a guide dog.

Can you tell us about your program and who you or your program serves? Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired supports individuals with a significant visual impairment that results in a substantial impediment to employment or a functional visual impairment that limits their self-care, daily living, leisure activities or independence.

How does an individual qualify for your program?

Any person with a visual impairment may apply for services to be assessed for eligibility. A functional vision assessment and Orientation and Mobility assessment will be completed with the visually impaired individual to see if they would benefit from our services.

What services does your program provide?

To find more in depth information regarding these programs please visit https://www.maine.gov/rehab/dbvi/

Vocational Rehabilitation- The goal of vocational rehabilitation services is to help you get a job, retain, or return to employment and advancement in employment.
Extended Support Programs- Provides services to persons with the most severe disabilities in order that they may maintain jobs in community-based supported employment settings.
Business Enterprise Program- Provides training and support to manage snack bars, cafeterias, and vending machine facilities on state federal and municipal properties.
Independent Living- Provides adaptive skill training to accomplish activities of daily living, home making and navigating their home environment safely.
Education Services for Children- Provides comprehensive services for children and families and begin as soon as a child is identified as blind or visually impaired.
Financial Services- Provides support for any person legally blind and in need that may be eligible to apply for SSI or SSDI.
Information regarding Real Estate Tax Exemption- Persons who are legally blind may receive a real estate tax exemption.
D. Cards for Individuals who are Visually Impaired and Blind- A card is available to visually impaired people who do not have a driver's license. This card is acceptable identification for cashing checks, and other transactions. It may be obtained at any Department of Motor Vehicles office. The fee is $5.00. The list of acceptable proof of identification can be found here https://www.maine.gov/sos/bmv/licenses/identity.html.
Library Services- Maine State Library Talking Book Program provides books and magazines in a recorded cassette or disc format to people who are blind or visually impaired.
DBVI State Rehabilitation Council- Provides leadership and diverse viewpoints in partnership with DBVI to develop and evaluate programs and services.

What do you feel is important for people to know about DeafBlindness or those with Dual-Sensory Impairment?

It is important to understand that both groups of individuals have a preferred method of communication whether it is American Sign Language, Braille, amplified speech, or hand-written notes. It is important to help provide the preferred method to support independence and clear communication. Additionally, there is several resources available to aid communication with adaptive technology. Maine Cite has several webinars regarding adaptive technology (AT) and funding sources-https://mainecite.org/training/. Additional information supporting DeafBlind and Dual-Sensory individuals-https://www.maine.gov/rehab/dod/resource_guide/deafblind.shtml.

An Interview with Aisha Smith - IRIS Network

Aisha Smith, Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (CVRT), The Iris Network

This is a graphic of a man with a smnartphone

This is a picture of a young man holding his smart phone close to his ear with his left hand as he uses his right hand to complete VoiceOver gestures to access information through his phone. The young man is sitting in front of a beige wall wearing and blue and gray plaid hooded sweatshirt with and black hood.

This is a graphic of a man using a high contrast computer keyboard

This picture is of a man using a high contrast keyboard with black on yellow keys. He is wearing headphones to hear audible commands produced by his computer. The man is seen smiling as he works on a technology class assignment

Can you tell us about yourself, your role or position?

My name is Aisha Smith. I am a Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist, or CVRT, working with The Iris Network. As a Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (CVRT), I work in the communities of Lincoln, Knox and Waldo counties and also pitch in in other areas when needed. My job entails adapting day to day life to assist individuals who are visually impaired in maintaining their independence. Currently, the agency is supporting me in furthering my education to include assistive technology for individuals with visual impairments. I absolutely love what I do and look forward to creatively thinking of solutions to ensure the people we serve remain as independent as possible with the skills and technologies they need to do so.

Can you tell us about your program and who you or your program serves?

The Iris Network’s professional staff helps individuals who are blind or visually impaired adapt day-to-day skills to maintain their independence in their home, community, and work. We work with individuals who range from 14 years of age to end of life. The Iris Network provides services statewide and continues to improve services through outreach, individualized programs, and groups when it is possible. In many cases, we are working with individuals who not only have a visual impairment, but also individuals with different ability levels and needs including hearing loss, cognitive needs, and age-related concerns.

How does an individual qualify for your program?

Any individual with a visual impairment can apply for services. An individual can be found eligible by applying for services through the Maine Department of Labor, Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Individuals may also contact our main office in Portland, Maine if they would prefer to be a private paying client for services. An application is completed and documentation from eye specialists, medical doctors and other professionals are gathered to support eligibility. Once a person is found eligible, referrals are made to CVRT’s to address needs identified by the client. The best way to get the ball rolling is to contact our office at (207) 774-6273 and ask about services.

What services does your program provide?

The Iris Network provides several options for service. As I have mentioned, in the community we work with people in various settings including their home, place of employment and community settings as needed – some lessons even occur at libraries or grocery stores. The Iris Network also has a Rehabilitation Center in Portland available for vocational focused clients who would benefit from being immersed in learning anywhere from two to twelve weeks. This allows clients to take home skills and information allowing them to be work ready. Many resources and events are shared through our newsletter and email sign up. I would encourage anyone, even if they are not seeking services at this time to sign up for the newsletter to keep up with happenings of The Iris Network and for people with visual impairments in Maine.

What do you feel is important for people to know about Deafblindness or those with Dual-Sensory Impairment?

The biggest piece of information I feel is important for people to know is that every person is an individual. Every person has different experiences, goals, and needs. We have a saying “Once you’ve met one person with a visual impairment, you’ve met one person with a visual impairment”. I also think it’s important for people to advocate for themselves and their needs such as asking for a shopping assistance if needed or asking that a person engage with appropriate technologies while communicating. For people in the communities throughout Maine, be kind. Ask if you can offer assistance to any human you see that may need some, but also graciously step away if your assistance is not needed. Sometimes people are learning to navigate new situations on their own. Let’s make Maine an inclusive place for individuals with any impairment or need to be as independent and unique as we all desire.

Contact Information:

For follow up information, please reach out to Fran Kelley (fkelley@theiris.org). For general information please contact our main office at (207) 774-6273.

An Interview with Scott Murray – Disability Rights Maine (DRM), Deaf-Blind Program Coordinator

This is a graphic of Scott Murray, Disability Rights Maine (DRM), Deaf-Blind Program Coordinator .

Scott Murray, DRM, Deaf-Blind Program Coordinator

Can you tell us about yourself, your role or position?

I am a hearing, sighted, ASL-speaking person of varied interests. I have been working with Deaf and DeafBlind people for over 25 years in various capacities, including support service provider (SSP), interpreter, assistive technology trainer, and Braille tutor. I have been coordinator of the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP) since 2013.

Can you tell us about your program and who you or your program serves?

The Deaf-Blind Equipment Program, also known as iCanConnect, is a national program, funded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), for people with significant combined hearing and vision loss, to enhance their access to distance communication; that is, e-mail, texting, voice telecom, and advanced video communication services. The program was started in 2012, and since that time we have served about 125 DeafBlind Mainers all over the state.

How does an individual qualify for your program?

There is an application form available via download either from the DRME.ORG or iCanConnect.org websites. We can also send out the application via email or US mail in whatever format matches your access needs, such as braille or large print. The application requires a signoff from a professional such as a doctor or social worker who is familiar with the applicant’s DeafBlindness, and is also requires proof-of-income, since the program is intended for people with income less than 400% of the federal poverty line. The application form provides all the instructions you need to complete the process.

What services does your program provide?

The program provides a variety of equipment to enhance distance communication, such as smartphones and tablets, Macintosh and Windows desktop and laptop computers, magnification software, screen reader software, amplified landline phones, accessories, as well as braille devices for those who are skilled users of braille. In addition to equipment and accessories, the program also provides training on the use of the equipment for distance communication purposes.

What do you feel is important for people to know about DeafBlindness or those with Dual-Sensory Impairment?

There is immense diversity amongst people with dual sensory impairment and it’s important not to assume anything about a person’s strengths and abilities based on your own ideas about what it would be like for you to experience DeafBlindness. I am continuously inspired by the courage and ingenuity I encounter in working with people with dual-sensory impairment. While they are always grateful to us for what we provide, I hope they also understand the contribution they are making in the process, by modeling the meeting of their challenges with determination and a positive attitude.

Contact Information:

Scott Murray, NDBEDP Coordinator
Disability Rights Maine
160 Capitol Street, Suite 4
Augusta, ME 04330
SMURRAY@DRME.ORG
207-215-5321

Maine DeafBlind/Dual-Sensory Impaired Resources

https://www.maine.gov/rehab/dod/resource_guide/deafblind.shtml

Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI)

45 Commerce Drive 150 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333-0150 Brenda Drummond 623-7954 (V) TTY Users Call Maine Relay 711 287-5292 (FAX) Email: Brenda.G.Drummond@maine.gov

DBVI provides rehabilitation, education, independent living services and training to blind and visually impaired consumers (including DeafBlind) of all ages throughout the state.

Dual-Sensory Impaired/Loss Resources

Falmouth, ME Patty Sarchi 771-8885 (V) Email: psarchi47@hotmail.com

Patty Sarchi, an advocate for the individual with a dual-sensory impairment/loss, will assist with information and support to find resources that may be needed regarding the loss of sight and hearing. Communication by telephone or email is preferred.

Helen Keller National Center (HKNC) - New England Regional Office

215 Brighton Ave. Allston, MA 02134 (516) 320-0265 (V) (781) 257-2000 (VP)

Regional Representative: Tara Brown-Ogilvie Email: tbrown-ogilvie@helenkeller.org

Regional Assistant: Brenda Baroncelli Email: bbaroncelli@helenkeller.org

Website: Helen Keller National Center

The Regional Representatives of HKNC are located in ten offices across the country. They are responsible for connecting with individuals, families, communities, and state stakeholders within their regions to foster collaborative efforts in improving services for individuals with various levels of combined vision and hearing loss ages 14 and up. Visit the HKNC-Regional Representative webpage for more information: HKNC Regional Representatives

iCanConnect

The National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP) 1-800-825-4595 (V) 1-888-320-2656 (TTY) Website: iCanConnect/maine

iCanConnect, the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP), provides free access to distance communication technologies to people with significant combined hearing and vision loss who meet federal income guidelines.

Disability Rights Maine (DRM) Deaf-Blind Equipment Program

If you or someone you know is a Maine resident with severe combined vision and hearing loss, you or they may qualify for the NDBEDP (National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program). The program provides equipment and training at no cost to eligible individuals for the purpose of enhancing distance communication.

Examples of equipment: - Laptop or desktop computers - iPads or android tablets - Computer software, such as screen readers or magnification software) - Computer accessories including specialized keyboards, speakers, microphones, and mice - Refreshable braille displays (for clients who already know and use braille) - Amplified telephones and cellular phones

To qualify for equipment and services, applicants must submit an application and provide proof of annual income, and proof of disability by a doctor or other professional. After eligibility is confirmed, an in-home or at-work communication assessment may be conducted to find the best match of equipment and training to ensure successful communication.

For more information contact: Scott Murray, Deaf-Blind Program Coordinator Email: smurray@drme.org

New England Consortium on DeafBlindness (NEC)

175 N. Beacon Street Watertown, MA 02472 Tracy Evans Luiselli, Ed.D., Director (617) 972-7517 (V) (617) 924-5525 (TTY) (617) 972-7354 (FAX) Email: NEC@Perkins.org Email: tracy.luiselli@perkins.org Website: New England Consortium for the Deafblind Technical Assistance and Training (NEC)

The New England Consortium on DeafBlindness (NEC) provides technical assistance (consultation and training) on behalf of infants, children, and youth who are deafblind or at risk (infants to age 22). NEC staff work in collaboration with school personnel and Maine agencies, and provide professional development to service providers working with learners who have combined vision and hearing support needs. The NEC grant is funded by the federal Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). Services are provided at no cost to local school districts.

An Interview with Regan Thibodeau and Judy Shepard-Kegl, University Southern Maine (USM), Independence Without Fear Program

Is the University Southern Maine (USM) still providing the Independence Without Fear program?

Yes. Training orientations by Regan Thibodeau and safety screenings by Judy Shepard-Kegl are offered as needed.

If so, what is a co-navigator and how does an individual train to become a co-navigator?

We now refer to Support Service Providers (SSP) as co-navigators. Our trainings vary. We have offered semester-long and half-semester courses as well as week-long immersions for training. Regan Thibodeau has offered short workshops and training has been incorporated into several classes. Our preference is for longer trainings with DeafBlind and/or Dual-Sensory co-presenters and refresher trainings for co-navigators.

What does an individual do as a co-navigator?

A co-navigator guides an individual with various vision ranges in ways most preferred by the individual. This can include having the person place their hand on the back of the co-navigator's upper arm (or depending upon height on the shoulder). Some individuals follow without touching. There are also safety grips for individuals with balance challenges. The co-navigator scans the environment with a special focus on navigation safety, but also describes the environment (room layouts, events happening, people involved, etc.). We provide the information that would otherwise be available visually. Example, as a DeafBlind/dual-sensory impaired individual enters a cocktail party conversation, the co-navigator shares incidental conversation and observations of the surrounding social activities. The DeafBlind/dual-sensory impaired individual decides what to participate in based on the content provided by the co-navigator.

How does a DeafBlind or dual-sensory impaired individual qualify for Independence Without Fear services?

In Maine we are flexible. Any individual whether Deaf or hard of hearing qualifies. Even people visiting from out of state can qualify for services. Individuals who are DeafBlind or have dual-sensory impairment of any degree register with Independence Without Fear by contacting Kelly Parker, the Administrative Assistant for USM Linguistics, who provides them with the necessary paperwork. Individuals can request that a co-navigator help them with the application process.

It is necessary to determine the DeafBlind/dual-sensory impaired individual’s preferred language mode (speaking or signing) to find out if they want tactile access or listening access. After we know what they need from a co-navigator we try to locate one that is the best fit.

How does a DeafBlind or dual-sensory loss individual request a co-navigator?

A co-navigator can be requested by contacting Kelly Parker, kparker@maine.edu or via videophone 207-766-7098. Judy Shepard-Kegl, kegl@maine.edu and Regan Thibodeau, regan.thibodeau@maine.edu can also provide information.

Is there anything you want people to know about co-navigators and USM’s Independence Without Fear program?

Unfortunately, we are not state-funded and rely completely upon volunteers. While many co-navigators provide transportation, costs of driving from the DeafBlind/dual-sensory impaired individual's home to events or errands is their responsibility. Where possible, a co-navigator will assist individuals, by their request, in the use of public transportation.

COVID has impacted the Independence Without Fear program like everything else so we are short on co-navigator volunteers. However, please do not hesitate to reach out to us so we can do our best to provide whatever we can. One important thing I must stress is that co-navigators are not a placeholder or a substitute for interpreting services. Interpreters who have trained to interpret can also be trained to be a co-navigator. But co-navigators who only trained in co-navigation are not trained to provide qualified interpreting access. DeafBlind and dual-sensory impaired people deserve to have qualified interpreters at venues like everyone else. Co-navigators are better used for a DeafBlind and dual-sensory impaired person doing errands, which an interpreter would not be an appropriate placement for.

Contact information for Independence Without Fear Program:

Kelly Parker, kparker@maine.edu or via Videophone 207-766-7098
Judy Shepard-Kegl, Program Director, kegl@maine.edu
Regan Thibodeau, Training and Event Coordinator, regan.thibodeau@maine.edu
Videophone 207-766-7097 for training and safety assessments

An Interview with Danny Langlois

Danny Langlois

How do you self-identify?

I identify as a DeafBlind individual. I am more Deaf than DeafBlind.

What are your biggest challenges as an individual who is DeafBlind?

Getting someone to help me with shopping. Crossing the street safely because quiet or electric vehicles are difficult to hear. Kitchen equipment, I use a cropper or blender instead of sharp knives. Living in an apartment that is not DeafBlind friendly. Going out on my own is very challenging. I use a walking cane to help prevent falling.

What are some accomplishments you are proud of?

My Deaf pride. Staying involved in the Deaf community. Coordinating and Chairing the Deaf Culture Festival since 2018. Taking one day at a time.

What do you feel is important for people to know?

Do not hold back on approaching and socializing with a person who is DeafBlind. A person who is DeafBlind wants to feel included just like anyone else.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

People jumping in to help without asking if I need help first.

What technology do you use and what is most helpful?

I use an iPad to read documents. The iPad can change the small print into large print. Voice over technology to read long emails. It reads for me so I can follow along. I use a large television monitor hooked up to my computer for Zoom meetings. I also use voice interpreters at meetings I attend.

An Interview with Patty Sarchi

Patty Sarchi and Jeff, Guide Dog

How do you self-identify?

I self-identify as blind and hard of hearing. I wear a hearing aid and I have a cochlear implant.

What are your biggest challenges as an individual who is blind and hard of hearing?

Access issues. People or businesses who are not accommodating.
People who are afraid to ask questions or talk to you because they are scared they will say the wrong thing. Ask me questions and it will be better for both of us.
When I’m speaking with you explain to me where you are so I can face you.

What are some accomplishments you are proud of?

Pine Tree Guide Dog Users, Director, 2000 to present
The Iris Network Consumer Advisory Committee, 2010 to present
Dual Sensory Impaired Chapter of Portland, 2017
National Federation of the Blind, Maine, 2014 to Present; President, 2015
Gubernatorially appointed, former member of the Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired State Rehabilitation Council (DBVI-SRC)
National Sight and Sound Impaired (SASI) of American Council of the Blind (ACB), Chair of Commission, 1999-2005
American Council of the Blind, member, 1987 to present
Pine Tree Guide Dog Users, member since 1996
Guide Dog Users, Inc., member since 1991
Council of Citizens with Low Vision, member
Alliance of Aging and Vision Loss, member
Visually Impaired Hearing Impaired/Deaf Blind, Chair
Guide Dogs of America (GDA), Sylmar, California, Director,1996
American Association of Deaf Blind (AADB), Member
ACB Maine, Director, 1988-1998; President, 1996-1998
ACB Maine Northern Chapter, Vice President, 1995-1998
Maine Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Director, 1989-1998
Formed Support Networks for Blind and Visually Impaired in Bangor, Maine, 1990-1997
Downeast Guiding Eyes-Public Awareness and Educational Coordinator, 1987-1989
Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) International, Northeast Representative
Maine Center for the Blind, Director, 1990 -1999
Mississippi State University-National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision (NRTC) 2004-2009
Commission for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Late Deafened, Chair, 2012-2014, member, 2011-2015

What do you feel is important for people to know?

Most people with disabilities are comfortable with themselves. Ask questions and we’ll answer and hopefully we’ll make you feel comfortable.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Don’t say the words “over there”. Tell me left, right, behind, or in front of.

What technology do you use and what is most helpful?

My iPhone and the apps “Be My Eyes” and “Where You Are going”. “Be My Eyes” reads the label and tells me what I’m opening.
My computer and the JAWS software. JAWS reads what is on the computer screen and speaks it to me.
My guide dog, Jeffrey. Jeffrey is my eyes. He guides me and he knows his job. He makes my life accessible and understands me very well.

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Maine-Lines - June 2022

The National Family Association for DeafBlind

The Maine Department of Labor provides equal opportunity in employment and programs. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.

The Maine Department of Labor provides equal opportunity in employment and programs.
Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.