On blindness...

Only 18% of people considered blind are totally blind, meaning they have no usable vision. They are not able to see print, no matter how large, not able to identify colors, no matter how bright or contrast, they may or may not be able to perceive light and dark. They can not see shapes or motion... However, the other 82% of blind and visually impaired people can, sometimes, see large print. Make out colors, shapes, light and motion. It doesn't make someone "sighted"... here are few definitions.

Low vision is used to describe a loss of visual acuity while retaining some vision. It applies to individuals with sight who are unable to read a newspaper at a normal distance of viewing, even with the aid of glasses or contact lenses. People with low vision often need adaptations in lighting and/or enlarged print to read something.

• Myopic- Unable to see distant objects clearly, commonly referred to as "near-sighted."

• Hyperopic- Unable to see close objects clearly, commonly referred to as "far-sighted."

Partially Sighted is usually used in educational contexts to describe a visual impairment that requires special education services. The partially sighted student meets the challenge of disability in much the same way as a totally blind student. Accommodations include the use of readers, audio taped texts, and raised-line drawings. The partially sighted student may be able to use large print books and a Closed-Circuit TV (CCTV) or other magnifying device. Some partially sighted students can take notes in class by printing very large with a felt tip pen or marker; others will tape record lectures for later use.

Legally Blind refers to people that have less than 20/200 vision in the better eye or a limited field of vision that is 20 degrees or less at its widest point. People who are legally blind may have some useful vision.

Totally Blind individuals need Braille, raised-line drawings, audio recordings, and/or other non-visual media as an accommodation for accessing the content of visually presented materials.

Mike is totally blind. He relies on a dog guide, reads Braille, is unable to see media of any kind. He does have bright light perception.

JP is totally blind in his right eye (no light perception) but his left eye has some usable vision. He can see some colors, and, if they're large enough, even identify some print. It's wonderful for him to have something... It's very useful for him. It's important to remember he is still blind. He has adaped to his blindness so well, even I 'forget' sometimes. He still needs a cane to get around safely... he'll still need to learn Braille to become literate. He doesn't have low vision... He's blind, and it's okay!