March is Disability Awareness Month

March is Disability Awareness Month-and while there is a lot we will cover over the next few weeks related to the “disabilities” in the real estate industry, I wanted to kick-off the month on a positive note by introducing you to one of the most inspiring people I have had the pleasure to meet; Randy Pierce and his guide dog, the "Mighty Quinn."  Having seen Randy speak at an industry conference, I am convinced his message will resonate within the real estate community and beyond.

In 1989, at the age of 22, Randy began to lose his vision due to an unknown neurological disorder and by the year 2000 Randy had lost all sight. In 2003 Randy faced more challenges- the unknown neurological disorder which ended Randy's vision attacked in other ways, resulting in Randy's move to a wheelchair.

Ultimately, Randy spent 2004-2006 working to get out of that chair. This tested his perseverance and motivation most of all. Quinn, his guide dog, was specially chosen and trained to handle the mobility aids Randy needed at that time. It was a slow process, but through constant determination, the support of friends, a network of professionals, and of course Quinn, Randy once again is able to enjoy daily walks and runs with Quinn.

Randy found his newly discovered passion for hiking became a catalyst for establishing a non-profit, 2020 Vision Quest, in support of two charities that have been invaluable to him, the New Hampshire Association for the Blind, and Guiding Eyes for the Blind. 

Being highly motivated and goal driven, Randy set the task for himself of hiking all 48 of the 4000+ foot peaks in New Hampshire as a means of raising money for 2020Vision Quest. He is on target to complete all peaks by summer 2013 (far ahead of his original 2020 date!).  A gifted public speaker, Randy shares this story regularly with corporate audiences and students in an effort to inspire them to realize their own potential and achieve their goals.

Throughout the 2013-2014 school-year Fairway is committed to helping Randy achieve his goal of reaching over 48,000 students ages 6-18 through school based visits featuring an age appropriate presentation, Q & A and of course, time
with his guide dog, the Mighty Quinn.

Fairway Independent Mortgage (Needham) regularly supports community organizations and charitable efforts through our Fairway Gives Back program. Our connection to communities through our business and referral partners provides a vast network of people to share Randy’s message with, and we are especially excited to provide students with this inspiring opportunity.

Randy and Fairway have set a goal of 16 speaking engagements over the coming 12 months and have already begun scheduling for the spring.

Those interested in scheduling Randy to speak at a MA based school or child
based program should contact Fairway at 781-719-4682 or via email at betsyb@fairwaymc.com

Randy Pierce and the "Mighty Quinn"

 
Content Courtesy of Amy Tierce, Regional Vice President, Fairway Independent Mortgage