Ben Underwood: The Boy Who Sees with Sound

Introduction

• Ben Underwood lost both eyes to cancer at age 3.
• Remarkably, he taught himself to see using echolocation (seeing with sound).
• Prefers to see himself as not blind and embraces life fully.

Background

• Lives in Sacramento, California.
• Uses common aids for the blind (software, Braille writer) but no guide dog or cane.
• Uses echolocation by making sharp clicks and interpreting the echoes.

Unique Abilities

• Can identify objects, walls, and furniture through sound.
• His ability to echolocate is unique worldwide.
• Ben's family supports his independence and does not treat him differently due to blindness.

Family Support

• Mother, Aquanetta, plays a crucial role in Ben's adjustment to blindness.
• After losing his eyesight, she encouraged him to see with other senses (hands, nose, ears).
• Aquanetta made sure Ben grew up feeling confident and capable.

Medical Background

• Ben had retinoblastoma, a rare eye cancer affecting infants.
• His mother made the difficult choice to remove his eyes to save his life after failed treatments.
• After surgery, Ben began using echolocation to navigate the world.

Development of Echolocation Skills

• Ben realized he could ‘see’ using sound just a year after losing his eyesight.
• Developed echolocation skills through practice and play.
• Can skate, ride a bike, and engage in activities typical for his age group.

Educational Experiences

• Initially attended a residential school for the blind, which he found unengaging.
• Now in a local high school and prefers to blend in with his peers, often resisting help due to his strong sense of independence.

Challenges of Independence

• Ben’s refusal to use a cane limits his independence, despite his strong echolocation skills.
• His family moves to provide him with walking access to school and other activities.
• Initially struggles with navigating his new environment alone without assistance.

Training and Development

• Aquanetta seeks help from Dan Kish, a mobility instructor with similar experiences.
• Dan teaches Ben about the importance of using a cane in conjunction with echolocation for safety.
• Training includes navigating busy streets and creating mental maps of unfamiliar areas.

Lessons Learned

• Ben faces the limitations of his echolocation when it cannot detect certain dangers.
• Dan emphasizes that embracing the use of a cane does not equate to being less independent.
• Ben experiences personal growth and begins to accept the idea of using a cane.

Conclusion

• Ben Underwood exemplifies resilience and creativity in overcoming blindness.
• His journey reflects the importance of family support, self-acceptance, and the development of skills for independence.

Note: Ben's story highlights the power of human adaptability and the unique ways individuals can navigate challenges, showcasing the extraordinary potential within those who face disabilities.