The journey of the Blind Parents Group within the National Federation of the Blind of Pennsylvania (NFB of PA) began in March 2021, under the dedicated leadership of Stacie Leap. What started as a virtual gathering of 23 individuals has since blossomed into a powerful movement, offering a voice and support system for blind parents across the state. This initiative represents a significant step toward empowering blind parents and their families, fostering a community that thrives on shared experiences and mutual support.
The Inaugural Meeting: A Community is Born
The first meeting of the Blind Parents Group set the tone for what was to come. Held virtually, it featured Melissa Riccobono, the First Lady of the NFB, who shared her personal journey of navigating motherhood while blind. Her story resonated deeply with the attendees, who numbered 23, creating a sense of solidarity among the participants. This initial gathering marked the beginning of a new chapter for blind parents in Pennsylvania, providing them with a platform to share their stories, challenges, and triumphs.
Building Foundations: Partnerships and Positive Parenting
Recognizing the importance of positive parenting, the Blind Parents Group quickly formed a partnership with Turning Points for Children. This collaboration led to a series of monthly virtual meetings facilitated by Valerie Anderson, focusing on the Powers of Positive Parenting. Over six months, parents were given tools and strategies to foster healthy, positive relationships with their children, emphasizing the unique challenges and strengths of blind parenting.
A Milestone: The First In-Person Meeting
In November 2021, the group took a significant step forward by holding their first in-person meeting during the NFB of PA State Convention in Harrisburg. With over 30 attendees, this gathering was a testament to the growing interest and need for a dedicated space for blind parents. The event featured two impactful panels. The first panel consisted of parents like Esther Gillyard, Jim Antonacci, Timothy McCarthy, and Gloria Nathan-Cherry, who shared their personal stories of parenting while blind. The second panel turned the spotlight on the children of blind parents, with powerful testimonials from Angelina Angelcyk, Jennifer Harding, and Abigail Gillyard. Their experiences highlighted the unique dynamics of being raised by blind parents, offering invaluable insights to the audience.
Expanding Horizons: Continued Virtual Engagement
Following the success of the convention, the group continued to meet virtually each month from December to October, taking a brief pause in July for the national convention. During these meetings, participants engaged in a multi-month discussion of the book “7 Habits of Highly Effective Families,” delving into principles that foster strong, resilient family units. Additionally, Accessible Pharmacy provided guidance on medication management, a critical topic for many blind parents, offering practical tips and solutions.
Strengthening the Community: The 2022 State Convention
The 2022 State Convention in Pittsburgh further solidified the Blind Parents Group’s role within the NFB of PA. The event featured two panels, once again highlighting the voices of blind parents and their families. This year, Quitrina Townes, Yvonne Hughes, and Karl Smith from Utah shared their experiences in person, while Lyvette Byrd and Christine Palmer contributed via Zoom. The second panel, featuring family members like Deon, Gabrielle Byrd, and Anayah Palmer, provided a unique perspective on the impact of blind parenting on children and grandchildren.
A Division is Born: The 2023 State Convention
The 2023 convention in Harrisburg marked a pivotal moment for the group. Stacie Leap and Jim Antonacci led a discussion on transforming the Blind Parents Group into an official Blind Parents Division within the NFB of PA. Under Jim’s guidance, a draft constitution was developed, and elections were held, resulting in the following leadership:
- President: Stacie Leap
- Vice President: Christine Palmer
- Treasurer: Marva Hall
- Secretary: Lyvette Byrd
This election was a significant milestone, symbolizing the formalization of the group’s efforts and the beginning of a new chapter. However, the final step in this transformation requires approval from the State Board of Directors of the NFB of PA, which is currently pending.
Looking Ahead: A Future of Advocacy and Support
As the Blind Parents Group awaits official recognition as a division, the momentum built over the past few years serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through community, advocacy, and shared experiences. The journey of the Blind Parents Division is far from over, but its impact is already evident in the lives it has touched and the stories it has amplified. With a dedicated leadership team and a growing community, the Blind Parents Division is poised to continue its mission of empowering blind parents and their families across Pennsylvania.
This division stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the strength of blind parents, proving that with the right support and community, they can navigate the challenges of parenting and thrive in their roles. The Blind Parents Division is not just a group; it is a movement that is changing the narrative for blind parents in Pennsylvania and beyond.
