By Rebecca Disirama Bakimsa
Accra, July 2, GNA – Parents of visually impaired children who once could not see any hope beyond the darkness surrounding their children’s condition are today becoming powerful voices of hope and advocacy.
Many who initially experienced heartbreak, disbelief and despair have evolved into champions for inclusion, educators and symbols of resilience, demonstrating that blindness is not a limitation but rather a redirection of potential.
Across different parts of the country, families have faced the painful reality of losing a child’s sight. What often begins with confusion and uncertainty gradually transforms into a journey of acceptance, courage and renewal—reshaping not only the future of the child but also the parents’ understanding of love, strength and faith.
This vision of empowerment is one shared by VISIO International and its local partner, the Ghana Blind Union (GBU), through programmes that promote education, rehabilitation and independent living for visually impaired children.
Madam Eunice (not her real name), the mother of a visually impaired child, is one such parent whose life has been transformed by this mission.
Recounting her daughter’s story, she said the ordeal began when doctors diagnosed the child with cataracts at the age of seven and recommended surgery.
“My daughter was only seven years old when doctors said she would require cataract surgery. After five years of waiting, praying and holding on to faith, the long-awaited day for the operation finally arrived,” she said.
However, when hope appeared within reach, the family received disappointing news.
“The doctor who was supposed to perform the surgery had travelled, and the operation had to be postponed for another six months. The disappointment was overwhelming, but we continued to trust in God’s timing,” Madam Eunice recalled.
During the additional waiting period, she noticed her daughter’s vision deteriorating further.
Eventually, the surgery was performed successfully.
“By God’s grace, the operation was successful, and the doctor came out smiling. It felt as though a huge burden had been lifted from our shoulders.
“When I visited my daughter afterwards, she looked at me and said, ‘Mummy, you are wearing a yellow top and a white skirt.’ Tears filled my eyes because she could see again. All the pain, waiting and prayers seemed worth it,” she said.
The family’s joy, however, was short-lived.
A month later, the child underwent a retinal operation, which the family embraced with the same optimism and faith.
Unknown to them, the procedure would mark the beginning of a far more difficult chapter.
“My daughter lost her sight completely after the operation,” Madam Eunice said.
“I was shocked. My legs became weak, and I staggered backwards to avoid falling. I questioned whether it was the right decision to proceed with the second surgery or whether it was simply a test of faith. It was difficult to understand why things had turned out this way after all the hope and prayers.”
Accepting that her then 12-year-old daughter would remain blind permanently became one of the greatest emotional challenges she had ever faced.
The experience was equally painful for the young girl.
“With time, I realised that no amount of tears could change what had happened. More than my sorrow, my daughter needed my strength. So, I chose to be strong for her, even when my heart was breaking,” she said.
It was during this difficult period that she encountered officials of the GBU.
According to Madam Eunice, their intervention changed her perception of blindness.
“When they told me my daughter could still live a normal life, I thought they were simply trying to comfort me. But they introduced me to blind people who were living independently and successfully. Some were pursuing higher education and aspiring to become lawyers and professionals.”
“At that moment, I realised I could not deprive my daughter, Mary, of such opportunities. I would never forgive myself if she was denied the chance to flourish because of my own emotions,” she added.
Officials of the Ghana Blind Union subsequently advised her to enrol her daughter at the Akropong School for the Blind.
Although it was not an easy decision, she chose to follow their recommendation.
“Deep down, I did not want to let her go, but I knew it was the best path for her future. I encouraged her even when my heart was heavy, and together we made preparations for her admission,” she said.
The day eventually arrived.
“I dressed her for school, told her she could do it and left her there.”
During her first vacation from school, the changes were already evident.
“She started helping with household chores, cleaning, washing and taking care of herself. These were things she could not do before, and honestly, things I would not even allow her to do.”
“Each day, my daughter became more independent, confident and capable. The transformation was so noticeable that family members, friends and neighbours could all testify to it. I have never been prouder of her,” Madam Eunice said.
Her story reflects the broader impact of supporting visually impaired children through education, rehabilitation and skills development.
For the GBU and its partners, including VISIO International and the Presbyterian Health Services, the goal is to ensure that no child is denied an education or the opportunity to reach his or her full potential because of disability.
Madam Eunice has a message for parents facing similar situations.
“Disability should never be a barrier to a child’s education. Education is the pathway to success and the gateway to knowledge, confidence and independence. Your child can become the person you have always dreamed of. Do not limit your child because of disability.”
Her words serve as a reminder that while blindness may alter the course of a child’s life, it does not diminish that child’s potential to succeed.
GNA
Edited by Lydia Kukua Asamoah
(Rebecca Disirama Bakimsa, is a blind student at the University of Ghana, an advocate and Executive Member, GBU)