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Blind Mom Becomes U.S. Baseball Medalist
27 Jul
Summary
- Kiana Glanton overcame postpartum depression and vision loss.
- She learned to parent as a blind mother with community support.
- Glanton is the first Black woman to medal in U.S. blind baseball.
Nearly a decade ago, Kiana Glanton experienced severe vision loss due to inflammation triggered by postpartum depression. Initially overwhelmed by the prospect of raising a child while blind, she sought help from the New York State Commission for the Blind.
Through Lighthouse Guild, Glanton found crucial support and community. A key piece of advice was "You are a mom. You're not a blind mom," empowering her to focus on her parenting role. She learned essential skills, including cane navigation, with her daughter Kali Jai's support.
Glanton connected with other blind mothers, forming a supportive network that addressed shared challenges and stereotypes. This community helped rekindle her spirit and motivated her to move forward with renewed determination.
In 2022, Glanton embraced blind baseball, driven by a desire to overcome internalized stigma. Her dedication led her to represent the U.S. team, winning a bronze medal in the Netherlands. She is notably the first Black woman and the only woman to achieve this for the U.S. in blind baseball.
Glanton's achievements are a testament to her resilience, serving as an inspiration to her daughter, Kali Jai. She strives to be a role model, demonstrating how to face challenges head-on and remain proud, ensuring her daughter has someone to admire.
