Helen Keller's parents were extremely supportive of their daughter. As a toddler, an illness left Helen deaf and blind. Her parents did not know what to do, but they sought help. They contacted Alexander Graham Bell, who advised that they contact "Mr. Anagnos, director of the Perkins Institution in Boston." It was through Mr. Anagnos that they found Annie Sullivan, the woman who would become Helen's lifelong teacher and companion.
Helen's parents hired Ms. Sullivan and had her come live in their home. While sometimes hesitant, they usually supported Ms. Sullivan in her attempts to educate Helen. When Helen was able to communicate, they continued to support her. After her father's death, Helen's mother sent her to the Cambridge School for Young Ladies to prepare for Radcliffe College. Her mother stayed involved in Helen's life, and she withdrew her from the school when she felt that a private tutor would be a better option.
Though Helen's parents were supportive and involved in her life, it was Ms. Sullivan that supported her on a day-to-day basis. This was especially the case after Helen moved away from the family home.
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