From Vision Loss to Inspiration | Helen Keller Achievement Award Recipient Kathy Nimmer

What happens when you begin losing your vision as a child—and refuse to let it define your future?

In this inspiring episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes Kathy Nimmer, recipient of the prestigious Helen Keller Achievement Award, author, speaker, and retired high school English teacher who spent nearly three decades educating and inspiring students while living with blindness.

Kathy shares her remarkable journey of progressive vision loss caused by a rare retinal degenerative disease, the challenges she faced along the way, and the resilience that helped her build a life filled with purpose, achievement, and impact.

In this episode, Kathy discusses:

  • Growing up with gradual vision loss and adapting to change
  • Teaching high school English for nearly 30 years as a blind educator
  • Overcoming depression, anorexia, and uncertainty about the future
  • The role of advocacy, family support, and disability representation
  • Pursuing mountain climbing, writing, public speaking, and teaching
  • Employment challenges facing people who are blind or visually impaired
  • Practical advice for families navigating vision loss and disability

Kathy also shares insights from her latest book, Two Plus Four Equals One, an anthology celebrating the unique bond between people with disabilities and their assistance dogs.

This powerful conversation is a reminder that while circumstances may change, purpose, passion, and perseverance can help us achieve far more than we ever imagined.

Learn more about Kathy at KathyNimmer.com.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Watch on YouTube

Listen on iHeart

July 24th, 2024|

In this episode of "We're Not Stumped," we feature the inspiring Todd Key, a one-legged cyclist who demonstrated extraordinary determination and resilience. Todd’s journey began at age 7 with a severe injury to his right hand, followed by the [...]

  • Against All Odds - Inspiring Stories of Amputee Triumphs: Headlines for July, 18, 2024

July 18th, 2024|

In this episode of "We're Not Stumped," host Mike Bolland delves into the incredible journeys of three remarkable amputees who have defied the odds and achieved extraordinary feats. First, meet the Marine veteran amputee who formed a rock band, [...]

  • Amputee Headlines Podcast July 11, 2024

July 12th, 2024|

Welcome to another exciting episode of the "We're Not Stumped" podcast with your host, Mike Bolland! This week, we're spotlighting stories that showcase incredible adaptations, pioneering efforts, and inspiring achievements within the limb loss community. In this episode, Mike [...]

By |June 2nd, 2026|General Disability Related Resources and News|Comments Off on From Vision Loss to Inspiration | Helen Keller Achievement Award Recipient Kathy Nimmer

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Go to Top