The Other Side Of Sight
As a blind person who lost their site at a young age, I have experienced and have overcome a lot of obstacles. This blog, The Other Side Of Sight) will hopefully open many people’s eyes to some of the barriers, questions, hardships, and so much more that I am sure many other blind people go through. I aim to provide answers and solutions to all the topics I will cover. If you have any questions of your own please feel free to contact us and I will be happy to answer them.
Just recently, Blink Today had a fundraiser. One of the activities to help raise money was a corn hole tournament. The prize, was a custom-made corn hole set with Blink Today's logo on it. Of course, I wanted to win these.
When people found out that I was going to play in the tournament, it sparked their curiosity. I was more than excited and eager to explain and demonstrate how I play this fun game without site.
I have been blessed with good family and friends that have always found ways to include me in everything. Learning how to adapt corn hole so I could play it with them was just one of the many things we figured out. Here is some insight into how I play corn
hole:
Knowing the boards are straight across for me, I can touch the board and line myself up. Generally, I use my inside leg and rest it against the board pointing my foot forward. This helps me line up my shot and throw the bag in the direction of the other board.
When I throw, I need either my partner or the opponent next to me to help me with two things. First, before I can throw they need to make sure all the bags are picked up and put on the board so I can find them. Secondly, as I throw, I need their description for where my bags are landing. I need to know whether it is to the left, right, if it is short, and even its placement on the board. Knowing this allows me to make corrections and adjustments if necessary.
Now, one of the most important adaptations I need is... sound! My partner is tasked with the important job of creating sound for me. Generally, we use a stick or my cane as a tool for them to bang on the board near the hole. This does not tell me exactly where the hole is but it does give me my indication on distance, direction, and allows me to aim.
Hopefully you may understand some simple adaptations that can be transferred over into many other fun games. Next time you find yourself playing corn hole with your friends and family I encourage you to close your eyes and give this a shot yourself. Simply put, "close your eyes and empathize" and let the best team win.
Stay tune for many more articles answering questions, overcoming obstacles, and many other insights both serious and funny. Feel free to contact us and ask your own question.
