Ben Underwood: A Remarkable Journey

Introduction

• Ben Underwood is a unique individual who lost both eyes to cancer at a young age.
• He has taught himself to see using sound, a skill known as echolocation.

Background

• Location: Sacramento, California.
• Ben lost his eyes to retinoblastoma, a rare infant eye cancer.
• Both eyes were removed to prevent the cancer from spreading.
• He uses a range of technology for assistance, such as speaking software and a Braille writer.

Echolocation Skills

• Definition: Echolocation involves emitting sound (clicks) and interpreting the echoes.
• Ben can detect walls, furniture, and other objects around him through sound.
• He does not use a guide dog or a white cane; he relies solely on echolocation.
• His ability allows him to navigate freely, even riding a bicycle and skating with ease.

Family Support

• Ben's family, especially his mother Aquanetta, plays a crucial role in his development.
• Aquanetta encourages Ben to view himself as capable and not defined by his blindness.
• She has fostered a positive environment, never allowing him to feel sorry for himself.

Challenges Faced

• The transition from using his natural skills to learning mobility skills is challenging.
• Ben initially struggled with social interactions at a residential school for the blind, feeling out of place.
• He prefers blending in with sighted peers rather than being labeled as blind.

Scientific Exploration

• Researchers are studying Ben's echolocation ability to understand how he perceives the world.
• They compare his skills with sonar technology used in submarines to see how sound interpretation works.
• Tests reveal that Ben can detect objects and navigate well, though he still has areas to improve.

Independence and Mobility Training

• Ben's family moves to promote his independence and ability to travel to school alone.
• He initially struggles with navigating his new route, showing he has much to learn about mobility.
• Dan Kish, a mobility instructor with similar experiences, begins training Ben to use a cane alongside his echolocation skills.
• Dan emphasizes the importance of a cane for safety and independence in navigating the environment.

Conclusion

• Ben's journey highlights the importance of determination, family support, and adapting to challenges.
• His story serves as an inspiration for overcoming adversity and redefining abilities in the face of disability.
• The development of his echolocation skills represents a unique adaptation that allows him to live life fully, despite his blindness.

---

Key Takeaways:

• Ben's story exemplifies resilience and innovation in the face of challenges.
• The combination of echolocation and mobility training can empower individuals with blindness to navigate the world effectively.