Blind Student Joe Hintz Inspires Kids with Seeing Eye Dog King

UPDATE: A remarkable story of resilience and inspiration is unfolding as Joe Hintz, a blind student at the University of North Dakota, visits Belmont Elementary School today, November 1, 1990, to share his journey with second-graders. Guided by his loyal Seeing Eye dog, King, Hintz is making an impactful statement about blindness and perseverance.

In a heartfelt discussion, Hintz opened up about his experience with vision loss due to diabetic retinopathy, a condition that drastically changed his life at the age of 29. “When I saw two red flashes in my left eye, I knew then that it was the beginning of the end,” he revealed to the attentive students. Hintz, now 31 and originally from Flasher, North Dakota, emphasized the importance of understanding and supporting those who are visually impaired.

During the visit, Hintz demonstrated how he navigates daily life, showcasing his talking watch and how he uses technology to complete his coursework. “I have a voice program for my computer, and when I type my notes into it, it talks back to me,” he explained, illustrating to the children that challenges can be overcome with the right tools and mindset.

King, a 4-year-old black Labrador retriever, has been by Hintz’s side throughout his academic journey, guiding him around campus and into class. “He knows his way around the UND campus and can guide me to other places we frequent,” Hintz shared. The bond between them highlights the loyalty and service of guide dogs, making King a true companion in Hintz’s life.

The visit is not just about education; it’s a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s ability to rise above adversity. Hintz’s perspective inspires students to appreciate their own abilities while fostering empathy towards others. “It’s real dark,” he told one curious child about what it feels like to be blind. “It’s real frustrating sometimes. But you get used to it.”

The event, organized by the university and local schools, aims to promote awareness about blindness and the importance of inclusion. With support from the disabled students department, Hintz is also assisted during tests by Teri Frans, who helps him access his exam materials.

As this inspiring story continues to develop, it serves as an urgent reminder of the impact one person can have on many lives. Hintz’s journey, marked by challenges and triumphs, encourages all to embrace their circumstances and foster understanding within their communities.

Stay tuned for more updates on Joe Hintz’s inspiring journey and the ongoing efforts to raise awareness about blindness and accessibility. This is a developing story that highlights the power of perseverance and the importance of companionship in overcoming life’s challenges.