Mildred
Keller was Helen's younger sister. Helen did not like her when she was very
young. Once, when Mildred was just a newly born baby, Helen found her sleeping
peacefully in the cradle which was meant for Nancy, the doll. Helen grew angry,
and overturned it. Mildred might have died if Helen's mother had not caught her
as she fell.

But as Mildred and Helen grew together, they loved each other very much. Both
of them would play and move around the house holding each other's hand. Later
on when Helen faced many challenges while learning to speak, at times, she got
so much discouraged that she would want to quit learning the speech. But the
thought of conversing with Mildred filled her with strength and energy, and she
would practice more. Thus, we see Mildred was Helen's heart.

Mildred Keller is a character from the autobiography "The Story of My Life" written by Helen Keller. She was a cousin and childhood playmate of Helen Keller. The autobiography depicts the incredible journey of Helen Keller, who became deaf and blind at a very young age but overcame her disabilities to become an influential writer, speaker, and advocate for the rights of disabled people.

**Early Relationship and Friendship**

Mildred Keller and Helen Keller were very close during their childhood. They spent a lot of time together, playing and learning. Mildred was a source of companionship and support for Helen as they grew up together. They shared many experiences and formed a deep bond.

**Impact on Helen Keller's Life**

Mildred played a significant role in Helen Keller's life as she was one of the few people who understood her struggles and communicated with her effectively. Helen often mentioned Mildred in her autobiography, describing their adventures and mischief together. Mildred's friendship brought joy and happiness to Helen's life, despite her disabilities.

**Comparison and Contrast**

While Helen Keller became deaf and blind due to an illness at the age of 19 months, Mildred was not disabled. This contrast highlights the challenges Helen faced and the unique perspective she brings to her autobiography. Mildred's presence in Helen's life also serves as a reminder of the differences between them, emphasizing Helen's isolation and the importance of her breakthrough in communication with the help of her teacher, Anne Sullivan.

**Conclusion**

Mildred Keller was a significant figure in Helen Keller's life, providing companionship and understanding during their childhood. Although Mildred's role in the autobiography is not as prominent as Helen's family and teacher, she represents a connection to a world that Helen struggled to be a part of. Through their friendship, readers gain insight into Helen's experiences and the impact of her disabilities on her relationships.