Breast Cancer Booklet in Braille

NBP Offers Blind Readers Free American Cancer Society Publication

Jan 6, 2009

National Braille Press promotions lead this month's roundup of media free and accessible to blind consumers.

The National Braille Press (Boston, Mass) is offering free copies (in braille or PortaBook) of the American Cancer Society booklet, “For Women Facing Breast Cancer.” The publication covers mammograms, biopsies, cancer staging, treatment options, and breast reconstruction as well as how to join clinical trials and where to find emotional support.

Each section includes a list of questions that individuals might want to their doctor or nurse. Copies are limited to one per customer

NPB also offers a free four-week trial of Syndicated Columnists Weekly, a braille magazine that includes columns and editorials print and online newspapers such as the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and Washington Post. Download a free sample (text or braille) on the NBP website. Annual subscription for Syndicated Columnist Weekly is $24 ($45 for two years). Call 800.548.7323.

Free Online Guide for Blind Web Surfers

Michael Feir has compiled a free guide on Accessible Computing for the blind that focuses on aspects of digital life that usually go untaught, including:

Feir hopes to motivate blind people to expand their use of accessible technology. His guide includes some of his computer-related experiences and three companion-piece lectures on digital technology.

The Sacramento Society for the Blind has back issues of popular magazines such as National Geographic and Rolling Stone in braille to donate to blind people living overseas. Call 916.452.8271, Ext. 319.

Online Networking, Radio Stations for and by the Blind

Blink Nation is a screen-reader-friendly social network for the blind, designed to be clutter-free, with fewer images and tables, drop-down menus replacing link lists, and dynamic content for easier navigation. The site features discussion forums and the ability to create individual blogs.

The Internet radio station 20-20 the Blink, which features family friendly music and has a mostly blind staff, seeks listeners as well as broadcasters.

Chuck Ayers’ website, Memory River Radio, offers tongue-in-cheek stories of his childhood experiences in East L.A. and how his Okie family merged into the social and cultural jungle of Los Angeles. The site also provides vintage radio programs, classic rock, and jazz, including Ayers’ own one-hour jazz radio show.

These current offerings reflect the Internet’s egalitarian nature as the web continues to provide blind consumers with equal access to opportunities for connection and self-expression.

The copyright of the article Breast Cancer Booklet in Braille in Accessible Recreation is owned by Andrew Leibs. Permission to republish Breast Cancer Booklet in Braille in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.