Maria’s Story: Wind Chimes

by Maria Marquez Dykman

Growing up, I attended the Florida School for the Deaf and it was there that I developed a passion for art. Then, at the age of 33, I lost my vision.

Prior to losing my vision, my best friend taught me how to make wind chimes. It was difficult at first, but I was a quick learner and became quite accomplished at making them. When I became blind it became even more difficult, but I found I could rely on feeling rather than sight.

I continue to make wind chimes with my best friend. Our goal is to start a business and sell them and we have even set up a website. I love teaching children as well, and in the future, I would love to teach children how to make wind chimes.

If you love art and want to be successful don’t let your visual impairment or hearing impairment stop you. You just have to feel it and be patient.

Note: This is an excerpt from the book Possibilities: Recreational Experiences of Individuals who are Deafblind, edited by Lieberman, Haegele, and Marquez.

Table of Contents

Credits, Introduction, and Preface
Rachel Weeks- Triathlon
Maricar Marquez- Running
Kristine D’Arbelles- SSP—Swimming Triathlon
Heidi Zimmer- Mountain Climbing
Cody Colchado- Power Lifting
Corrina Veesart- Ballet, Cheerleading, Rock Climbing, and Yoga
Emily Desfor- SSP—Outdoor Adventures
Kevin Frost- Speed Skating
Ryan Ollis- Running
Faye Frez-Albrecht- Soccer
Quinn Burch- Dance, Horseback Riding, and Running
Nicholas Abrahamson- Hiking the Appalachian Trail
Bruce Visser- Traveling
Jason Corning- Running
Sarah K. McMillen- Ice Hockey and Taekwondo
Angela Theriault- Running
Scott Keeler Bass- Biking
Maria Marquez Dykman- Wind Chimes
Conclusion & References