The final episode of the Understanding Voices mini-series with me, Ella Mansfield. In this episode, I talk to Bambi French, a SENDCo, coach and podcaster who takes an activist stance in changing the lives of people with visual impairments, something that she has personal experience of.
Bambi and I discuss the story of her visual impairment and how she has come to want to help people who are newly diagnosed. We discuss how diagnosis has an impact on identity and how her experiences have influenced her practice as a SENDCo. Finally, we talk about how EPs can work inclusively with schools and find a role in supporting young people with visual impairments.
Bambi French - Bio
Bambi French is wife, mum of one and special needs teacher to many! When she was 15 years old, Bambi was diagnosed with a degenerative eye condition called Stargardt Disease. Over the years, her level of vision has deteriorated and even though the challenges of sight loss have on many occasions caused her to want to give up, with determination and support from those closest to her she has been able to achieve more than she ever thought would be possible.
Over the last 25 years, her personal and professional experience has taught her that it is possible to live this life well, in spite of the limitations we might be facing. But she also recognises and understands that there are still so many who need the support and encouragement that will help them believe this for themselves.
In response to this need, Bambi is building a coaching practice and is the host of The She is a VIP Podcast, where the central mission is to help visually impaired women and girls embrace all that they are, discover their purpose and make an impact in the lives of others.
WEBSITE
www.sheisavip.com
INSTAGRAM
https://www.instagram.com/she_isavip/
FACEBOOK
https://www.facebook.com/sheisavip1