Laura Bridgman was an American woman who made history as the first deaf-blind child in American history to receive meaningful formal education in the English language. Her remarkable story began on December 21, 1829, in New Hampshire, where she was born to loving parents. Unfortunately, her life took a tragic turn when she contracted scarlet fever at the tender age of two, leaving her both deaf and blind.
Despite her disabilities, Laura's family did not give up on her. She was first taught the basics of sign language by a family friend named Asa Tenney. This was a crucial turning point in Laura's life, as it opened up a whole new world of communication for her. Encouraged by her progress, her family sought the help of Dr. Samuel Gridley Howe, director of the Perkins School for the Blind in Boston.
Dr. Howe took on the challenge of educating Laura, and under his guidance, she learned to read Braille and write with raised letters. She quickly became a bright and eager student, soaking up knowledge like a sponge. Her achievements were so impressive that they caught the attention of renowned author Charles Dickens, who wrote about her glowing in his 1842 book, American Notes.
As Laura grew older, she developed a passion for helping others like herself. In her later years, she became a teacher at the Perkins School, where she taught young blind girls how to sew. She was a patient and compassionate teacher, using her own experiences to inspire and motivate her students.
Despite her busy schedule as a teacher, Laura always made time for her family. She had two sisters, Mary and Collina, as well as a brother named Addison. Her family was her rock and provided her with unwavering support throughout her life.
Laura Bridgman's legacy continues to inspire people around the world. She paved the way for future generations of deaf-blind individuals, showing that with determination and hard work, anything is possible. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges, reminding them that they are capable of achieving great things.
Although Laura's life was not without its struggles, she faced them with courage and grace. Her impact on the world will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to shine brightly for years to come.
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