About Us

Paul Mayfield
Communication/ Social Media/Broadcasting

Paul was diagnosed with RP when he was seven (7) years old at a time (1980’s) when medicines and technology didn’t know very much about the disease. The doctor told Paul, at the age of seven- that he would be totally blind by the age of twenty (20). He nor his family knew what to make of this grim prognosis.

As a result, Paul studied hard and set his mind on the future and graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Teaching and a Master’s degree in Teaching and Curriculum .

Paul taught History & Geography  in middle schools for thirteen years, and it was his greatest passion but as he entered his 14^thyear of teaching, Paul grim prognosis of going blind began to  quickly manifest.

This was a devastating time for Paul, and he felt unequipped to be an effective teacher.

Paul didn’t properly prepare for this drastic transition and as a result he was unable to keep pace with the required daily objectives. So…. Paul retired from teaching and became overwhelmed from the experience.

Paul spend the next few years trying to transition into  being blind. He became sad, isolated and uncertain about his future.

Then  one  day  by word of mouth, Paul  heard about an organization called “Friends with Disabilities” (FWD).  Paul became   intrigued  by the information that he received and became eager to see how he could get involved. He was extremely impressed with FWD professionalism, kindness and activities.

After Paul participated in a few activities and fieldtrips ,he then decided to dedicate all  of his free time to the organization.

“Friends with Disabilities “gave Paul the opportunity to regain his courage,  and once again use his passion of teaching and helping.

Paul is currently a member on  FWD’s leadership team and has become a  pivotal voice in the organization.