The DeafBlind Woman of Steel: Elizabeth Forges Her Path to Independence
Known as the "DeafBlind Woman of Steel," former competitive bodybuilder Elizabeth brings remarkable determination to everything she does. At Helen Keller National Center, she discovered new pathways to independence while inspiring peers with her leadership. Now she's ready for her next challenge.
Adapted from original article written by Alexander Steinbrick | HKNC Participant
Elizabeth has never been one to shy away from a challenge. Known as the “DeafBlind Woman of Steel,” the former competitive bodybuilder approaches life with the same determination she once brought to the stage.
Recently completing the Comprehensive Vocational Rehabilitation Program at Helen Keller National Center, Elizabeth’s journey exemplifies the transformative impact of personalized training and unwavering persistence.
“The most rewarding part of working with Elizabeth was witnessing her leadership abilities flourish,” shares Elaine, Elizabeth’s primary support staff at HKNC. “She quickly became a natural community leader, guiding Town Hall meetings and inspiring her peers.”
Elizabeth has Usher syndrome, a progressive condition that has left her blind in one eye with low vision in the other. She also has cataracts in both eyes, is deaf, and lost an arm at age three. Despite these challenges, she embraced HKNC’s comprehensive training program with characteristic determination.
Her vocational training journey began at Jersey Mike’s before transitioning to food service at St. Francis Hospital, where she honed her culinary skills while working toward professional certification. Using accommodations including a CCTV, tactile sign language, a Ruby device, mobility cane, iPad, and Bluetooth keyboard, Elizabeth mastered the specialized skills needed for workplace success.
When asked what being DeafBlind has taught her, Elizabeth reflects on the importance of adaptation and resilience.
It has been my greatest challenge to adapt to a new lifestyle, but I embrace learning and facing obstacles to show others what is possible.
Her advice to others facing similar challenges speaks volumes about her character: “Keep learning no matter what, and don’t give up, even when you face struggles. It’s okay to feel frustrated, but the rewards are worth it. Be a warrior! Let your frustrations fuel you to overcome obstacles.”
Now back in Minnesota, Elizabeth is pursuing multiple goals: continuing her braille studies, advocating for the DeafBlind community, seeking employment in food service, and returning to bodybuilding. “I want to keep inspiring others,” she says, “and show what’s possible when you refuse to give up.”
Elizabeth credits her grandmother and stepmother as her greatest influences. “They are the strongest women I have ever known. Everything I’ve learned is because of them.”
Through her journey at HKNC, Elizabeth gained practical skills for independence while strengthening her identity as an advocate. The comprehensive training, personalized support, and empowering environment at Helen Keller National Center gave her the tools to transform challenges into stepping stones toward her goals. Today, as the “DeafBlind Woman of Steel” returns to competitive bodybuilding and community advocacy, she stands as powerful testimonial to HKNC’s mission of creating pathways to independence for individuals who are DeafBlind.
A Message from Elizabeth
Hello, my name is Elizabeth. I was a student at Helen Keller National Center last July, up until April. It was a life-changer for me. When I found out I had Usher syndrome and would become DeafBlind due to vision loss, my access was limited. My knowledge of what was available to me in terms of technology and careers, was minimal. I felt stuck. It was like I was coming across barriers left and right, and it was a struggle. My confidence was nonexistent. I didn’t really have much of a feeling in terms of self-worth. I felt like a child lost in the woods.
When I got to Helen Keller, wow! My eyes were opened. I realized that DeafBlind individuals can do everything. That you could learn, and learn about adaptive technology, different techniques for accommodations, how you can have access to different things again. Previously, I didn’t have any access to technology, but now I have access again. I learned about work and different vocational options for me. Now, I have a sea of possibilities ahead of me. It was worth it!
Now with the knowledge and training that Helen Keller gave me, I can live independently. I can do anything. With different accommodations and adaptive technology, I have access again. If it wasn’t for Helen Keller, I wouldn’t know what my future would look like. I wouldn’t know how to communicate, how I can have access, how to cook. I wouldn’t know so many different things. They would all be question marks. Now, when I think about my goals for the future, I’m excited. I’m thinking about the future with excitement. HKNC is such a vital place in this world. We need these services now and we need them to continue into the future so that DeafBlind individuals who face the same struggles I did, have the chance to receive support, pursue their goals, follow their dreams, and build their own path.
