From Isolation To Independence

Our Disability Outreach project helps children and young people with disabilities who are isolated and stigmatised. By providing aids, improving access to medication and treatment, and connecting families to services and peer support, our team is having a profound impact on some very disadvantaged young lives.

Sixteen year-old *Nelson is just one of almost 40 children and young people supported by the Disability Outreach project in its first 12 months. He says the team have transformed his life.

Nelson became blind after contracting measles as a young child. When his parents died, he moved to live with his elderly grandmother. His brother left school to support them both by making groundnut paste to sell in the market.

Lost Hope

Nelson dropped out of school because of pain in his eyes and difficulties in getting around. He had no independence or privacy and had to be led everywhere, even to the toilet. His was a hard life, of discrimination, isolation, stigma and poor health. “I lost hope, my family gave up on me,” says Nelson. “Yes, I was blind but I didn’t deserve to be ignored.”

Nelson with his white cane.

Our Disability Outreach team referred Nelson for assessment, which recommended medication and a white cane, both of which were provided by the project. The white cane was a revelation to him, as it enabled him to regain his independence.

The team also enrolled Nelson at a School for the Blind near his home in Soroti, Uganda. Our Head of Operations, Steve Wicking, met Nelson at school earlier this year. Teachers told him Nelson had learned to use a Braille typewriter in less than a month and is now an outstanding student.

A Life Changed

Nelson says our Disability Outreach project has changed his life:

“I have learnt that this stick is not just merely a stick but it’s a powerful and respected tool. Whenever I raise it, even a big truck stops.

I find myself respected and considered. I have full access, I can visit, I no longer have painful eyes, I am independent. I attend my class regularly and can participate, I have the hope to achieve my career dream. This has been a breakthrough in my life.”

Nelson wants to become a radio presenter. Now he has a chance to pursue that dream. We’re rooting for you, Nelson!

*Children’s names are changed to protect their identity

Click here to read more stories of children’s lives transformed by Global Care