1950 Press Photo New York Gene Manfrini Blind Student of Columbia University NYC

GENE MANFRINI 21 YEAR OLD SOPHOMORE AT COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY IS ONE OF THE NATION'S BEST COLLEGIATE WRESTLERS AN HONOR STUDENT AND A GIFTED MUSICIAN. ALL THIS MIGHT NOT BE UNUSUAL EXCEPT THAT GENE RETAINS NO VISUAL IMAGES IN HIS MEMORY. HE HAS BEEN BLIND SINCE THE AGE OF THREE, HIS ACCOMPLISHMENTS NOT ONLY OF BEING A SPORT STAY, BUT MORE IMPORTANT OF LIVING A NEAR NORMAL LIFE SHOULD BE AN INSPIRATION TO THOSE SIMILARLY AFFLICTED. GENE WALKS AROUND CAMPUS WITHOUT THE USE OF A CANE OR SEEING EYE DOG. HERE HE WALKS DOWN THE STEPS PAST THE STATURE OF ALMA MATER. ONLY A CLOSE INSPECTION WOULD REVEAL THAT HE IS BLIND. Photo measures 6.25 x 9.25 inches. Photo is dated 01-20-1950.

Photo back: