Visually Impaired Enjoy a Festive Christmas
Virginia Beach, VA –What would it be like to experience the holidays without
your eyesight? You could still experience the sounds of Christmas carols, the sweet smell of baking
cookies, and even the cool peppermint taste of a candy cane. These are a few of the experiences
that a few members of the Virginia Association for the Blind cherish. Operation Blessing had the
pleasure of sponsoring a special evening for them earlier this week.
Dressed in a classic black Christmas jumper and hat, you would not suspect Judy is legally blind
until spotting her guiding herself to a dinner table with a walking stick. This striking woman lost
sight in her left eye as an infant due to retinal tumors. Judy grew up in a time where her parents
were scared for their daughter’s future. She felt like damaged merchandise. In 1991, the retina
in her right eye detached and then again in 1995, leaving her in the current condition. The retired
administrative assistant has glaucoma now and can barely make out shapes with her “good”
eye.
However, confidence and peace glow from Judy’s face. She shared, “I feel absolutely
beautiful because I know Jesus loves me.” Her handicap doesn’t stop her from being
adventurous - like reaching the top of a 55-foot climbing wall.
On Monday evening Judy was excited about being with over seventy guests, both visually impaired
and their families, for the evening’s events. For many who live on fixed incomes, this was
their Christmas. It began with volunteers leading, “Silent Night” while servers brought
out the spinach salad. A little while later, a meal of roasted chicken, green beans, duchess potatoes
and rolls was served followed by coffee and cheesecake for dessert. As the meal was cleared away,
volunteers passed out personalized cloth gift bags to all of the guests. Judy was thrilled with
gifts which included an umbrella, candy as well as notepad and pen set.
Rosa Hamilton, the Virginia Association for the Blind’s president and visually impaired
herself, commented, “I wish we could do this every year. Operation Blessing has been beautiful.
I want to thank Operation Blessing for the great hospitality they have given us.”
Judy, a volunteer, commented, “I think I’ve had as much as they have!”
12 Days, 12 Ways
Today is the final day in our "12 Days of Christmas" program. Two more events are happening
throughout the day! With the help of our partners, Operation Blessing staff and volunteers have
brought holiday joy to over 1,000 people! Every day we focused on unique ways to bless groups
normally overlooked during the holiday cheer.
Over the last eleven days activities have included serving the elderly through four holiday luncheons,
treating teens living in foster homes and a crisis house to pizza parties, giving gifts to homeless
and prisoner’s families, as well as pampering women living in emergency shelters with a
day of beauty while their small children were cared for.
Operation Blessing’s Holiday of Hope activities aren’t only going on in Virginia.
With the help of our partners, Operation Blessing will bring holiday joy to tens of thousands
of hurting men, women and children across the United States as well as around the world! You can
be a part of this wonderful time by giving your gift of $50 or more today! Give an online gift
of $50 or more this month and receive our beautiful Calendar of Caring, perfect for your home
during 2004!
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