overcoming challenges Archives

Exploring Through the Darkness

A reflection on a personal quote about blindness, mindset, resilience, and the choice to keep moving forward through life’s challenges.

Off Like a Herd of Turtles: Sea Kayaking the Apostle Islands

Thirteen paddlers, nine miles of Lake Superior, and one unforgettable journey into the Apostle Islands. We followed music across open water, shared stories around campfires, weathered storms, laughed through the unexpected, and somehow survived one very determined bee. Somewhere between the sore arms, wet gear, and quiet moments on Oak Island, a group of people became a crew—and we were off like a herd of turtles.

From Patient to Keynote: A Full-Circle Moment at the 2026 AER International Conference

Returning to Kentucky as the opening keynote speaker for the 2026 AER International Conference brought my journey full circle. Eighteen years after beginning blindness rehabilitation, I had the opportunity to honor the professionals whose instruction, technology and encouragement helped me build an independent and adventurous life.

Returning to Kids Are Outta Sight (KAOS) as an Ambassador and Mentor

Kids Are Outta Sight (KAOS), a Team River Runner program, introduces blind and visually impaired children and their families to kayaking, adaptive recreation, and outdoor adventure. Through mentorship, hands-on instruction, and paddling the gentle waters of Pennsylvania's Conestoga River, participants build confidence, independence, friendships, and the belief that adventure belongs to everyone.

AER International

This companion resource for Steve Baskis's 2026 AER International Conference presentation provides accessible slide descriptions, presentation materials, and supporting resources. Whether you're following along during the session or revisiting it afterward, these materials are designed to ensure equitable access to the presentation for everyone.

Music Access

An introductory guide to accessible music and audio production for blind and visually impaired creators. Learn how to begin with AI music tools, MIDI controllers, microphones, audio interfaces, studio monitors, and digital audio workstations.

Tag: overcoming challenges