We have Helen Keller to thank for prompting us to celebrate Deafblind Awareness Month in June. Helen Adams Keller (June 27, 1880 – June 1, 1968) was an American author, political activist, and lecturer and was the first person with deafblindness to earn a Bachelor of Arts Degree. She is renowned internationally for her perseverance and achievements and is an inspiration to us all. Thanks to the Intervention support
of Helen’s Intervenor, Anne Sullivan, Helen Keller was able to overcome the isolation in which she lived and learned to communicate and savour the wonderful moments and experiences this world has to offer.
Since 2015, we have celebrated Deafblind Awareness Month across Canada and this year in BC we saw the lighting in blue of several landmarks in June: BC Place Stadium, Vancouver City Hall, North Vancouver City Hall, South Okanagan Convention Centre (Penticton), Anvil Centre (New Westminster) and the Canada Place Sails. A group of staff and individuals with deafblindness from CDBA-BC and the Deafblind Planning Committee gathered for dinner and a photo-op at the Anvil Centre and at the Canada Place Sails.
Our AGM was once again paired with our Family Bowling Event to kick off the month and this year we also offered the opportunity for individuals to explore our Sensory Tent. This month’s events continue to delight many in BC and across Canada as we celebrate deafblindness awareness!