Educator. Due to the death of her mother at an early age, she and her brother were sent to an orphanage. Because of her poor living conditions, she had health problems all her life and lost her sight at age 35. In 1887, she became governess to six-year-old Helen Keller. Using creativity and patience, she taught the blind, deaf and mute girl a manual alphabet. Because of her teachings,  Keller was able to attend classes at Radcliff College with Sullivan as her constant companion. Later the two made worldwide tours and chaired fundraisers for the American Foundation for the Blind, including visits to the White House. In 1905, she married John A Macy, a Harvard professor who worked with  Keller on her autobiography. The marriage didn’t last. She continued to be a constant companion to Keller, going with her on worldwide lectures. After her death,  Keller wrote a book about her titled simply “Teacher.”  (bio by: Rebecca)