What Happened to Helen When She Was a Baby?

When Helen Keller was a baby, she tragically became both deaf and blind at the age of 19 months due to an unknown illness.

The Onset of Her Condition

Helen Keller's early childhood was profoundly affected by a severe illness that struck her when she was just a toddler. This illness, which doctors at the time were unable to definitively identify, left an indelible mark on her life, leading to the loss of her senses of sight and hearing.

• Age of Onset: Helen was just 19 months old when she fell ill.
• Resulting Conditions: As a direct result of the illness, she became profoundly deaf and blind.
• Suspected Causes: While the exact illness remained undiagnosed, medical professionals speculated it might have been rubella (German measles) or scarlet fever. Both are infectious diseases that, especially in that era, could lead to severe complications, including sensory impairments, if they caused significant neurological damage.

The sudden onset of this dual sensory impairment meant that Helen experienced her formative years without the ability to see or hear the world around her in the conventional way. This profoundly shaped her early development and communication challenges until she later met her lifelong teacher, Anne Sullivan.

Key Facts About Helen's Early Illness

This period marked a critical turning point in Helen's life, transforming her world and setting the stage for her remarkable journey of learning and advocacy. Her story continues to inspire millions, highlighting the power of perseverance and the importance of accessible education for individuals with disabilities.

For more information on Helen Keller's life and legacy, you can explore resources from organizations dedicated to supporting the blind and visually impaired, such as the American Foundation for the Blind.