Meet Caleb: Through the Years with CCVI

When Hannah Beresford, a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist, first met Caleb, one thing was clear.

“I thought, ‘oh, he has an outstanding future ahead of him,’” says Hannah.

Unlike many other children on her case load, Caleb is a 17-year-old who attends high school in Independence, MO. As a student of CCVI’s M.O.V.E. Program, Caleb receives his instruction from a provider in his own neighborhood high school under a contract with the school district.

In his sessions, Caleb and Hannah work on navigational skills, such as finding objects that he would require in stores during shopping excursions, getting from point A to point B, and even learning different rideshare options, such as Uber or services offered through KCATA.

Caleb has Ocular Albinism, a rare eye condition that affects the retina and the nerves behind the eyes. It can cause blurry eyes, eye movements, and a sensitivity to light.

Caleb has come a long way since he was first diagnosed at 6 months old, and CCVI has seen him grow since he first had a home visit as an infant from a CCVI provider.

“He wouldn’t be where he is today without CCVI,” says Rebecca.

As a ‘stressed, young parent’ after receiving Caleb’s diagnosis, Rebecca was searching for resources in the area when her boss at the time mentioned that he participates in a race that benefits an organization that helps children and their families who have a visual impairment: the CCVI Trolley Run.

“When you join CCVI, you’re held in loved hands,” says Rebecca. “Even after we transitioned to a new school after preschool, which is a world of unknowns, CCVI even came to my first IEP meeting. That meant a lot to me.”

Caleb’s story is a testament to CCVI’s mission that the work of service is never done.

From a child’s birth through their high school graduation, CCVI is a resource at the disposal of all families.

As a young man of many talents, Caleb has added a new one to his repertoire: learning to play the guitar. Although, his mother will be quick to add that his vocals also shine.

“You wouldn’t look at him and think it, but he sounds just like Hozier,” says Rebecca, referring to a popular alternative singer.

Among his methods of learning, which include special instruction and accommodations for his visual impairment, Caleb has learned how to play by ear, as well.

To see a 17-year-old who once needed speech-language therapy as a preschooler become a talented singer and guitarist is something the entire staff at CCVI cherishes.

When he graduates, Caleb will become a veterinary technician to fulfill a long time passion of working with animals.

“My favorite animal is one that a lot of people haven’t heard of: a ring-tailed cat,” says Caleb. His mother sighs.

“He begged us to adopt a pet racoon...” says Rebecca.

While Caleb now has a school family in his home district, CCVI is still able to be a partner in his growth. As Hannah continues to be an ambassador for vision, the support grows tenfold as she educates the staff on the best practices of teaching an individual who is blind or visually impaired.

“CCVI is that family you didn’t know you needed-- that’s the word: family.” says Rebecca. “Not just a school or a staff or a building. A family.”

As Caleb thrives and shines, he serves as a reminder of what’s possible for young children attending CCVI.

“Never be afraid to do things that people say you can’t.”