Love is Blind

by Ruth Vallis

Excited and full of the confidence of youth, totally blind Ruth arrived in London, England, to study Physiotherapy. She spoke the same language, was domestically independent, and had good mobility skills: how hard could this be?

As it turns out, far more difficult than she could have ever imagined, but Ruth was determined to succeed. People who are blind face many challenges, but perhaps the biggest obstacle is the low expectations of others. You can let those who don't understand you define who you are, or you can ignore them and follow your dreams-as Ruth did.

Love is Blind is the memoir of Ruth Vallis. Blind before the age of 3, Ruth was the youngest pioneer of integration in the public school system in Canada, blazing a trail for many to follow. At every stage of her extraordinary life, Ruth defied the low expectations of others, and took on such challenges as biking from Ottawa to Toronto, completing a Master's of Science degree online before technology accessibility was legislated, and more. Through it all there was her tender, tough-loving mother, Peach, offering encouragement, support and humour to overcome enormous challenges.

Discover the power of women working together for good. See how obstacles can become stepping stones. Laugh, cry and be inspired!

204 pages, Paperback

Published March 23, 2021

Reviews

[Kathleen Garber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a captivating memoir which is high praise for her first book. Ruth’s story is interesting and I honestly can’t believe all the things she is able to do blind.

Being clinically blind from the age of 3 could have really set her life back. It could have stopped her from achieving anything or living her life fully. She didn’t let that happen.

She accepted her new normal and moved on with her life the way she wanted to. Her mother was an amazing support and I’m sure she’d be in a different place if it weren’t for her.

This is not just a memoir of a woman who was blind. She grew up blind in the 60s and was part of the Canadian public school system’s attempt to integrate blind children into regular schools. A blind person now would have supports, especially digital ones, that Ruth did not have in the 60s. It makes her achievements all the more amazing.

That’s right, Ruth grew up in Canada. I love reading books that take place in my home country.

[Margaret Kelly]

If you are looking for inspiration this is a must read, some of us go through life with fears of the unknown, fears of what is, fears of trying something new, fears of flying, imagine being fearless and doing it all while being totally blind. I did have the pleasure of working at a Rehabilitation Hospital with Ruth I was a Nurse and most patients were skeptical of having a blind Physiotherapist but after one session with Ruth they knew why she was held in high esteem. I was totally unaware of Ruth's private life and the struggles she had faced, nor the sadness of love and loss, but I do know that reading Love is Blind made me realize that if Ruth can accomplish amazing goals then what have we got to hold us back. Margaret Kelly

[G. Salter · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been a while since I've read an autobiography, but I found it to be much better than most I've read. The author communicates her life story well, giving the full story but not spending too much time on minute details (I once reviewed an autobiography by a pilot who kept talking about the multiple houses he had owned and how he renovated of them).
Something in the writing style felt a bit formal to me, but that may just be the difference between Canadian and American English.

[Kelly Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Love Is Blind” is an incredible novel. This Canadian memoir shows the power of women working together. Ruth Vallis has been blind since the age of 3, as well as dealing with rheumatoid arthritis and has followed her dreams her entire life. You feel like you are on Ruth’s life journey reading this motivational book. She focuses on what she can do and appreciates the joy of life, which is truly inspiring.

[Mary- Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written. Poignant, honest, inspiring! A must read!

[Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an inspiring story of perseverance, determination, and love. Ruth's journey is remarkable not just for a blind woman, but for a human being. Read this book!