Beyond Deafness

Photo by Sharon Graphics

Before the age of two, little Marlee Matlin enjoyed singing and hearing herself make noise.  However, after some time, her family began to notice Marlee changing.  She no longer sang or babbled like a typical toddler.  After she was taken to the doctor, Marlee was diagnosed as deaf.  The cause was not certain, but the outcome was definitive.  Marlee would no longer hear the world as a typical human.

Her inability to hear the subtle noises and words of others did not hinder her in any way.  Marlee has since learned to read lips, speak with her hands and even speak aloud.  Some people believe that she has a handicap because she cannot hear, but Marlee would most definitely disagree.  This woman has gone on to be an Oscar winning actress and even a dancer on Dancing with the Stars.  Beyond that, Marlee is now fighting for the rights of those who cannot hear.

This blog will be based upon the life and work of Marlee Matlin.  Although there will inevitably be discussions on her accomplishments as an actress and as a person, I intend to further my research on her work with the deaf culture and other charitable organizations.  Those who know Marlee Matlin as "the deaf actress from the 70s" don't realize the work that she does in Washington to fight for closed captioning.  Marlee also works with Very Special Arts group to bring all types of art to those with disabilities.

Another part of this blog's purpose is to explore how those are labeled "disabled" must work to overcome the stereotypes.  I will use Marlee and her body of work as a prime example of people being able to overcome hardships and physical difficulties to live a full life.

Overall, you find on this blog information on Marlee Matlin and her life.  You will learn about the movies and television she has been a part of you, the obstacles she has overcome, the work she has done with the deaf culture, and the work she does for others.  Hopefully, you will agree that she is, in fact, inspirational without a sound.

(Photo Credit: http://flic.kr/p/6m1s74)