How Mary Ingalls Lost Her Sight- The Tragic Journey of a Little House on the Prairie Heroine
How Did Mary Ingalls Get Blind?
Mary Ingalls, the beloved character from the classic American novel “Little House on the Prairie,” has captured the hearts of readers for generations. Her story, as depicted in the book and its television adaptation, is one of resilience and courage. However, one question that often comes up is: how did Mary Ingalls get blind?
Mary was born on December 7, 1865, in Malone, New York, to Caroline Quiner Ingalls and Charles Ingalls. Her childhood was filled with adventures and challenges, much like her younger sister Laura Ingalls Wilder, who chronicled their lives in her books. Mary was the second oldest of the Ingalls children, and she had a close relationship with her younger sister, Laura.
At the age of 14, Mary’s life took a turn when she developed an illness that would ultimately lead to her blindness. In 1879, Mary contracted an infection known as exophthalmos, which is an inflammation of the eye’s muscles and tissues. This condition caused her eyes to bulge and her vision to deteriorate rapidly.
Despite the devastating diagnosis, Mary’s spirit remained unbroken. Her father, Charles, was determined to ensure that his daughter could continue her education. He arranged for a special tutor to come to the family’s home, and Mary was able to continue her studies. Her mother, Caroline, also played a crucial role in supporting Mary’s educational needs, often reading to her from books.
As Mary’s vision worsened, her family moved to De Smet, South Dakota, where they had settled after leaving their home in Walnut Grove, Minnesota. In De Smet, Mary’s condition continued to deteriorate, and she eventually became completely blind. Despite her blindness, Mary’s determination to live an independent life never wavered.
Her family continued to support her, and Mary managed to live on her own until she was 34 years old. She had a job as a seamstress and even learned to read Braille. Mary’s blindness did not hinder her ability to contribute to her community and maintain her independence.
Mary Ingalls’ story is a testament to the resilience and spirit of someone who faced a significant challenge in her life. Her blindness was a result of a medical condition, and it is important to note that it was not caused by an accident or a congenital condition. Mary’s journey from a healthy, sighted child to a blind adult is a poignant reminder of the strength and determination it takes to overcome adversity.
In conclusion, Mary Ingalls got blind due to a medical condition called exophthalmos. Despite her blindness, she lived a fulfilling life, maintaining her independence and contributing to her community. Her story continues to inspire readers and remind us that adversity can be overcome with courage and determination.
