October 2023
The Hull Foundation
Monthly Sight Loss News
www.hullflc.org
“The publishing of this newsletter is a service of The Hull Foundation and Learning Center Inc. It is not an endorsement of any of its contents. All products, items and other information may be used at the sole discretion of the reader.”
Editors, Hull Foundation Staff
Contents
Mission Statement …p. 3
The Power of Resilience: Overcoming Life’s Challenges…p. 4
Innovative S.A.F.E. SCUBA Program in Portland, OR…p. 6
Monthly Hearing Aid Tip…p. 9
Reading in the Dark Book Club…p. 12
Carrot, Coconut and Zucchini Bread…p. 14
White Cane Day Walk…p. 16
Hull Foundation Events and Seminars…p. 19
Hull
Foundation Zoom Information…p. 20
Jokes to Keep You Laughing…p. 21
Contact Us…p. 22
Our Mission Statement:
The mission of the Hull Foundation and Learning Center is to provide programs, facilities and services including social, educational, and recreational activities for people with blindness and sight loss.
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please call the Hull Foundation at 503.668.6195 or send an email to: oralhull@gmail.com
The Power of Resilience: Overcoming Life’s Challenges
-Teresa Christian, Sight Loss Instructor and Life Coach
Resilience is a remarkable trait that enables us to bounce back from adversity, face challenges head-on, and grow stronger through life’s trials and tribulations. It is not merely the ability to endure hardship but the capacity to adapt, learn, and thrive in the face of adversity.
Resilience is like a muscle that can be developed and strengthened over time. When we cultivate resilience, we often find ourselves better equipped to navigate the unpredictable journey of life. We possess a mindset that sees setbacks as opportunities for growth and transformation rather than insurmountable obstacles.
One key aspect of resilience is a positive outlook. Resilient people tend to focus on solutions rather than dwelling on problems. They view setbacks as temporary and believe in their ability to overcome challenges. This optimism fuels their determination to persevere even when the road ahead seems tough.
Furthermore, social support plays a vital role in resilience. Building strong relationships with family, friends, and a supportive community creates a safety net during difficult times. Knowing that you have people who care about you and are willing to lend a helping hand can significantly boost your ability to bounce back from adversity.
Resilience is also closely tied to adaptability. Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and those who can adapt to new circumstances are better equipped to weather storms. Flexibility in thinking and a willingness to embrace change can make all the difference when facing difficult situations.
Resilience is a powerful and invaluable trait that can help us not only survive but thrive in the face of adversity. It is cultivated through a positive mindset, social support, adaptability, and a willingness to learn and grow from life’s challenges. Remember that setbacks are not failures but part of the learning curve of life. They are just stepping stones on the path to resilience and personal growth. Embrace them, learn from them, and let them make you stronger.
Innovative S.A.F.E. SCUBA Program in Portland, Oregon
– Marja Byers, Sight Loss Instructor
In the heart of Portland, Oregon, a groundbreaking initiative program is changing the game for visually impaired individuals who dream of exploring the depths of the ocean. The S.A.F.E. SCUBA (Sensory Awareness Freediving Experience for SCUBA) program is breaking down barriers and creating new opportunities for inclusivity in the world of underwater exploration.
S.A.F.E. SCUBA utilizes a unique training approach that emphasizes sensory awareness. Participants are guided through a comprehensive training curriculum that focuses on honing their other senses, such as touch, hearing, and proprioception, to navigate and experience the underwater world effectively.
One of the program’s standout features is the use of tactile markers and underwater sound signals. These innovations allow visually impaired divers to follow designated routes and communicate with their dive buddies and instructors effectively. The use of specialized equipment, like underwater communication devices, also plays a vital role in making the underwater experience more accessible.
Participants in the S.A.F.E. SCUBA program have reported transformative experiences. Sarah Mitchell, a visually impaired diver, shares her excitement: “Exploring the ocean through this program has been a life-changing experience. It’s incredible to feel so connected to a world I never thought I could access.”
The S.A.F.E. SCUBA program has garnered local and national attention, earning recognition for its commitment to inclusivity in the world of underwater adventure.
In a world where barriers are being broken and dreams are becoming realities, S.A.F.E. SCUBA is a shining example of the power of innovation and determination. As the program continues to flourish in Portland, it serves as a reminder that the ocean’s wonders are meant to be experienced by all, regardless of the challenges they face.
Next month we will have an interview with a blind couple who have gone through S.A.F.E. SCUBA dive certification and are just back from a dive trip to Honduras!
Monthly Hearing Aid tip:
– Meagan Moore, Sight Loss Instructor
There is no shame in using all the tools and technology to function at your best. I have been a hearing aid user since the age of three. I have worn several different types; from Behind the Ear (BTE) to In the Canal (ITC), and now I’m considering Cochlear Implants (CI). I have used analog, digital, and absolutely love my new Bluetooth capable hearing aids. Many people lose their hearing later in life, and struggle with the grief of not hearing as well and realize hearing aids cannot replace normal hearing. I still can touch on the importance of wearing them consistently and how to make them be my most useful tool.
Studies show when you wear hearing aids consistently, every day, about 16 hours a day, then your brain is able to adjust to the new noises and help make new pathways that can help prevent or even reverse some atrophy of the brain. In other words, the more you wear them the more your brain benefits from them. For me it can take 3-6 months to fully adjust to a new set of hearing aids, it can be a painful, anxious, and tearful adjustment, but it has always been worth it. I would go in for frequent fine tuning to help get the noises I enjoy back and to lessen the noises that give me headaches. I have found that it is much shorter if I wear them all day in all environments. And this last adjustment was maybe a weeklong, so it really depends on the hearing aids and the Audiologist you are working with. You want someone who is willing to listen and make the adjustments as needed.
Tip for the month: Take a hearing break. Wear your hearing aids as much as you can around normal daily activities to learn the sounds. However, when you feel overstimulated, over tired, or just too much is going on, step away and take your hearing aids out for 30-45 minutes and just give your ears a break.
Resources and References
Neuroplasticity and Hearing Loss Treatment: http://bit.ly/3XSPiy3
Neurocognitive Benefit from Hearing Aid Use: https://bit.ly/3JZ8SCN
Reading in the Dark Book Club
– Marja Byers, Sight Loss Instructor
Our books for September were, “The Book Thief” by Marcus Zusak, DB62431, and “A Walk in the Woods: rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail.” by Bill Bryson, DB46519. They are very different stories and reads, “Book Thief” taking place in World War 2 Germany and “Walk” takes place in the US in 1996. We all enjoyed both books and had good discussions about them.
Our October selections are:
10/10 “The Salt Path” by Raynor Winn, DB106187, 9:02.
“‘The Salt Path’ is a memoir about a married couple who walk the arduous 630-miles South West coastal path (of England). Raynor, and her husband Moth, are in their 50s when they lose their beautiful farmhouse in Wales due to a legal battle.”
10/24 “The Grub-and-Stakers House a Haunt” by (Charlotte MacLeod writing as) Alisa Craig, DB38987, 6:35. A not-so-scary story for Halloween!
“The ghost of murdered mule driver, Hiram Jellaby, manifests himself in the kitchen of the widow Zella Trot, demanding that she find both his buried gold and his bones.” It’s a very different murder mystery!
Remember that you don’t have to have sight loss or live in the Oregon/Washington area to participate, we welcome anyone who enjoys books and talking about them. If you are interested in joining us, you can call the office to get on our weekly Zoom call email list as this call is not on the ACB Community Calls. The office number is 503-668-6195. We hope to see you all in October!
Carrot, Coconut and Zucchini Bread
– Desiree Christian, Sight Loss Instructor
Active Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs.
Yield: 1 8-by-4-inch loaf
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup canola oil
3/4 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large carrots, grated on the large holes of a box grater (1 packed cup)
1 medium zucchini, grated on the large holes of a box grater (1 packed cup)
1 1/4 cups shredded sweetened coconut
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°. Spray an 8-by-4-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, whisk the flour with the baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with the canola oil and both sugars until smooth. Stir in the carrots, zucchini and 3/4 cup of the shredded coconut, then fold in the dry ingredients just until combined.
Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of coconut. Loosely tent the pan with foil and bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown, and a tester inserted in the center of the loaf comes out clean. Transfer the bread to a rack to cool for 30 minutes, then turn it out and let cool completely.
Make Ahead
The bread can be wrapped and kept at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Save the date! Saturday, 10/14 is the 2023 White Cane Day Walk
We are excited to be hosting the reception for the 2nd annual White Cane Day Walk!
The walk is in recognition of White Cane Day a national observance in the United States, celebrated on October 15 of each year since 1964. The date is set aside to celebrate the achievements of people who are blind or visually impaired and the important symbol of blindness and tool of independence, the white cane.
Starting Place: Pike Place Market Information Center: 97 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101
Ending Place: Washington Talking Book & Braille Library (WTBBL): 2021 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
9:00 am – 9:50: Arrive at starting place.
9:50 am: Group Photo
10:00am: The Walk begins!
10:20-45: Walkers arrive at WTBBL
11:00am: Welcome Comments/ Booth Introduction
Presentations by Guide Dogs for the Blind, National Federation of the Blind and Cane Fixing Demo by the Lighthouse
12:30: Event ends
There will be a group of volunteers to walk folks back to the starting place at 12:30.
WTBBL will host a reception and a vendor area including:
Department of Services for the Blind
Deaf Blind Service Center
Hope Vision Foundation
Lighthouse for the Blind
Guide Dogs for the Blind
National Federation of the Blind
Northwest Association for Blind Athletes
Snohomish Lion’s Club and Knights of the Blind
Washington Council of the Blind
You can purchase your White Cane Day swag here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/white-cane-day/. All items are sold at cost and no profit is made by event organizers.
You Cane Give Initiative is sponsoring a cane drive for this event! Wondering what to do with that old cane you no longer use in the closet? Is that drawer of used canes collecting dust and taking up space? Donate your old canes to the “You Cane Give” program. And turn that old cane into newfound independence for individuals in need.
To register visit: https://forms.gle/arSPMEFXhQFa3jLe7.
Participation is capped at 125 people. The deadline to register is October 1st. By registering you agree to hold the event organizer harmless in the event of any accident.
Questions? Ideas! Email Alice Klein at alice.klein@dsb.wa.gov
Hull Foundation Events and Seminars:
Lots of exciting things are coming up!
-October 13th Fundraising Dinner and Auction
– October 24th– 27th Monster Mash
– November 8th One Day Fun Day Thanksgiving Dinner
– November 8th– 10th Advanced Sight Loss Seminar
– November 14th– 16th Sight Loss for Two
– December 12th – 15th Winter Holiday Getaway
If you are interested in any of our Recreational Getaway Events, One Day Fun Day Events, Seminars and Retreats, please contact our office and get signed up! The spots can fill up very quickly, so jump in with both feet, save your spot and come out to Hull Park in 2023!
Hull Foundation Presents Zoom Meetings:
Zoom meetings will include topics on tech, cooking, crafting, book club and a class on forgetfulness that has been immensely popular. If you are interested, please join us. Bring a friend or spouse, sighted or not!! If you would like to sign up to receive a weekly email with the Zoom schedule for the week and the links to the meetings, please email the office at oralhull@gmail.com or call us at 503-668-6195. If you are not an email user, then you can call us on Mondays to receive that week’s classes and the call-in number and Meeting ID number for meetings you are interested in attending via phone.
Jokes to Keep you Laughing…or Groaning!
Q. What kind of monster loves to disco?
A. The boogieman.
Q. Why didn’t the scarecrow eat dinner?
A. He was already stuffed.
Q. How do you fix a broken jack-o-lantern?
A. With a pumpkin patch.
Q. Where does a ghost go on vacation?
A. Mali-boo.
Q. What do you get when you cross a vampire and a snowman?
A. Frostbite!
Stay well, stay safe, and stay happy!
Contact Us:
The Hull Foundation Family
Phone: 503-668-6195
Email: oralhull@gmail.com
Website: www.hullflc.org
Visit us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/OralHullPark/?notif_id=1631758417290618¬if_t=page_user_activity&ref=notif
On Instagram: www.instagram.com/hull_foundation/