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Celtics celebrate ambassador for disabled

Jaimi talks with Carla Lynton
Jaimi talks with Perkins volunteer Carla Lynton. Photo by Angela Rowlings/ Boston Herald
The Boston Herald, January 23, 2008

By Renee Nadeau

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Jaimi Lard won't be able to see or hear the crowd at tonight's Celtics game, but she will most definitely feel it - right down to her heart.

Deaf and blind since birth, the woman who has championed education for the blind and multiply disabled will be honored during the game.

And fans will be encouraged to let her know how much her courageous work has meant by stomping their feet in thanks.

"She's always ready to be out there. She never says, 'No I'm too tired; it's too hard for me to do that,' " said Marilyn Rea Beyer, media and public relations director at Perkins School for the Blind, where Lard graduated in 1987 and has worked full time since 2000.

Lard works as an ambassador for the school, speaking to groups about the importance of providing education and opportunities for people with disabilities.

But tonight is her night, and she'll feel the gratitude.

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