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Sunday, March 17, 2013

Allegheny County crowns first Deaf Miss Smiling Irish Eyes

17 year old Maggie Donaldson made history by becoming the first Deaf Miss Smiling Irish Eyes this year.  And it is a well deserved recognition, as this award is based on serious efforts! She is the 50th in a long line of those who earn the award by involvement in community service and other recognized achievements. And, in her spare time, she's achieved so well in school she's the valedictorian.

You can watch the video below and read more here.  Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2 comments:

william Peace said...

This is a nice story that makes me feel uncomfortable. In my view the report verges on inspiration porn. Am I being too much of a hard ass? The mother for example was given an negative forecast for her daughter's future. This was brought up and ignored. Ugh, woke up cranky this Easter morning.

Ruth said...

I see your point, Bill and it's well taken.

What I loved about this story, however, is that she is so well accomplished and earned the title - far too often there are patronizing stories about PWD - this kid is a valedictorian and in general has achieved so much...that I wanted to highlight that on here.

It's pretty hard to find content without ableism - oh wait, isn't that the problem? LOL

Wishing you a happy Easter!
Ruth