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The Friedrich Family
Maryann & George Friedrich and Grandsons Brendon and Cameron
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Brendon and Cameron
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"I see the world with most of my senses. I do not see the world with my eyes."
As you will see below, these are the opening words to a poem written and published in a journal by Maryann & George Friedrich’s older grandson, Brendan, and it pretty much explains why for the last five years they have been contributing and raising money for Foundation Fighting Blindness’s research into retinal degenerative diseases such as Leber’s Congenital Amourosis.
“We believe that the funding provided by FFB’is advancing research that will someday allow our grandsons, Brendan and Cameron, to see. In the meantime, the boys continue to be healthy and develop as normal children, thanks to the love and hard work of their parents”, said Maryann.
Brendan , at nine , is now into Harry Potter having finished the first book and gotten audio versions of books two and three. Fourth grade school work keeps him busy but he still finds time to ride his tandem bike, swim, play beep baseball and try his hand at Wii sports like bowling and golf.
Cameron started first grade and follows in his older brother’s foot steps trying everything his brother does. For practice, he Brailed his cousin’s college application and has become quite the pro at using the Braille writer.
The Friedrich Family has participated in the Orlando VisionWalk since 2010 with their team, WALKING FOR BRENDAN AND CAMERON! They are an amazing addition to the walk and do a fantastic job of involving their community.
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My Senses
By: Brendan Friedrich, Age 8 - 2010
I see the world with most of my senses.
I do not see the world with my eyes.
I see the world with my ears, hands, mouth, and nose.
I see the world with my ears to hear where things are.
Spring peepers, the first sign of spring
the hum of the refrigerator which no one else seems to notice
the call of the Red Wing Black Bird
the tapping of my cane when I travel in the hall
I see the world with my hands to read Braille and learn what symbols represent.
the reigns on my horse
the soft fur of my dog
piano keys when I play a song
I see the world with my mouth to taste different kinds of food.
carrots
steak
hummus
chocolate
I see the world with my nose to smell things in the air.
fresh cut grass in spring and summer
grills
car gas
soap when I wash my hands
That is the world as I see it.
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