ASL Browser

Just in case anyone is interested in learning some signs, here is an ASL browser that I found on the internet.  I'm trying to teach my friends and family so they can communicate easier with me.

A Month of Freedom (Kind Of)

Now that finals are through I feel like a heavy weight has been lifted from my shoulders only for something else to come in its place. I no longer have my assignment deadlines or have too study for tests. Now I need to apply for the education program, apply to be a Community Advisor, help three of my siblings with their school work, and figure out what everyone wants for Christmas. Whew! Well at least I can sleep in!

I am looking forward to seeing the Jazewski family more. I got to see them yesterday for a brief moment. Jilli looked so good! I'm hoping we have a good time on New Years Day!

Faith in Dentists Restored

For years I have STRONGLY disliked dentists. They were always too busy. They didn't seem to care for any one person. And they were always the ones to say those dreaded words, "you have a cavity." I came to the conclusion that dentists don't go to school to learn about oral care. Oh no. They went to school to learn torture people. I believe this because each time I leave the dentist I have been in tears. I have jaw pain all the time so going to the dentist and having him try to open my mouth is just awful. I have told him time and time again that it hurts, don't, I can't open any wider... He never listened. Yesterday I went to see a new dentist, Dr. Strand. She was awesome! She listened to what I had to say, she spoke to me like an adult, she answered my questions, and SHE DIDN"T HURT ME!!!!!! Going to the dentist and leaving without more pain means this doctor is good. My faith in the dental field has been restored thanks to Dr. Strand.

Lunch with the U of M President and Regents

I attended a Luncheon with the University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks and the Board of Regents. The lunch was for the higher up people at the U to meet some student leaders and vice versa. We had an amazing lunch and I got to listen in on a conversation between some of the Regents about the economy and how it affects colleges. Very cool. I also got to personally speak with President Bruininks. I learned that he has been involved with disability issues in the past. Perhaps I might be able to persuade him to visit the Disabled Student Cultural Center?

My pain level has been increasing lately. Please pray that my pain will someday be resolved.

Videophone

I finally got a videophone in my dorm room. It wa quite a struggle. When Tim arrived to help me set it up, things were just not goig our way. I needed so much more cables then originally thought because my T.V. is so old. When my VP started to work my internet on my laptop stp working. To make a long story short, I now have a videophone and internet thanks to Tim.

I also had a dyad (meeting) with Nick from Leaderquest. We went bowling and played some card games. I had a very good time. Thanks Nick!

Tomorrow is my Public Health exam. Hopefully it goes well.

My pain was down to a 4 today. I am quite happy about that. I hope someday it will hit 0.

Class Frustrations

I am currently taking a figure skating class at my college. For the most part it has been a blast. Recently I have run into a problem. We are all supposed to create a skating program to perform in front of the class. I have no problem with this except for the fact that my teacher has refused to help me. She said that it's not fair if she helps me and not anyone else. I have no clue what the song is about, how fast it is, or when it starts and stops! Everyone in the class is hearing except for me. They can hear the song. I don't think this is very fair.

Cochlear Implant Controversy

Recently in class we talked about Cochlear Implants (CI). Many people in class believe that the CI is very beneficial and that all Deaf people should have one as soon as possible. They are all hearing people. I disagree. I do not believe this should be done. I am not 100% against CIs. I think that if someone chooses to have an implant it is there choice. Whatever makes them happy. However, I don't think it is fair to little kids. They are not making the decision. Their parents are. CIs are permanant. What if the child is not happy with the implant? I don't think that parents should make such a decision. I think the child can get one later if they choose. There is a hearing world and a Deaf world. The people with Cochlear Implants fit in neither category. Hearing people veiw CI people as deaf and Deaf people view CI people as hearing. It has potential to make the child never feel like they belong. Also, I fear that the Cochlear Implant will make the Deaf Culture disapear. People with CIs are taught to talk and not sign. I am a Deaf person who can speak and I am so glad that my parents did not decide to implant me. I don't have a desire for it. I love being Deaf even though it is sometimes hard. I love who I am now, the implant would have changed me.

Hello!

My name is Kathryn. I have had Goldenhar Syndrome since birth.  It affects my hearing (I am Deaf) and it also affects my spine, my heart, my kidneys, one side of my face is smaller, and I am missing an ear.  I aslo have had Gillain-Barré Syndrome.  This started soon after on of my jaw surgeries about four years ago.  I don't feel exactly back to where I used to be but I have gotten pretty far. 

The purpose of this blog is to share what is happening with people (family, friends, strangers).  I have many different experiences from what people normally face.  If one story or comment on this blog helps even one person I will be glad.