The Boy Who Could See Without Eyes

posted on Aug 18 by Amelia in the Disability News, Interesting Links category

Ben Underwood was blind since he was 3 years old.  A battle with cancer caused him to have his eyes removed.  Despite losing his eyes, Ben could still see using sound.

Using a series of clicking noises, Ben was able to map out the location of the world around him in a process known as echolocation.  He is the only person in the world able to use this technique which is similar to how dolphins and other creatures navigate the ocean with sonar.

Ben’s mother taught him to focus on his abilities instead of his disabilities.  From the first moment when he awoke after surgery and told his momma that he couldn’t see, she said to him that nothing was impossible and that he could in fact see using his ears, nose, and hands.  His mother focused on never allowing Ben to be treated as if he was disabled.

Just one year later while driving down a busy city street with his mother, he asked her from his car seat if she could see a big building “out there.”  She was amazed that he was correct, and he had expanded his abilities to use echolocation for his sight ever since.

Ben never used a white cane, a guide dog, or any assistance.  Scientists were fascinated by his ability, and other children with cancer were in awe of his talents.

Sadly, Ben Underwood passed away at the age of 16 in his battle with cancer after inspiring millions with his courage, abilities, and determination.  He developed cancer in the rest of his body and grew weaker as days passed.  At the end, Ben told his mother that he was ready to go to sleep and wake up in Heaven.  Ben was a beautiful soul that will continue to inspire all those who hear his story.

This (nearly) 1 hour documentary that we found on YouTube shows the story of Ben Underwood who thrived in a world despite of his disability. It is cut into 5 parts.  We hope you enjoy it.

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

To learn more about Ben and read a letter from his mother, visit http://www.BenUnderwood.com

Update:  Matthew Horspool on Twitter suggests that Ben Underwood was not the only person capable of using echolocation, and that nearly everyone who is blind uses the technique to some degree.  He does suggest that Ben Underwood was the most sophisticated user.  Thanks for the input Matthew!