When Avin began experiencing vision loss in 2019, life suddenly became uncertain. She was diagnosed with low vision at ayoung age, a condition that affected her learning and everyday life. Despite the challenges, Avin remained determined tocontinue with her education and successfully joined high school, refusing to let her disability define her future.
However, in 2023, her condition worsened after doctors discovered cataracts in both eyes. The deterioration of her sight made learning increasingly difficult and affected her ability to move around independently. After several medicalconsultations, it became clear that she needed more specialized support beyond medical treatment.
During this difficult period, Avin met an officer from the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), who referred her to the Kenya Society for the Blind for rehabilitation services.
In March 2025, Avin officially began her rehabilitation journey at KSB. The support she received marked a turning point in her life. Through orientation and mobility training, she learned how to move safely and independently using a white cane provided by KSB. She also received rehabilitation training that equipped her with essential life skills, boosted her confidence, and helped her regain independence. However, her condition deteriorated and in addition, KSB had to take upthe cost of her treatment and medication until she was fit to continue with her rehabilitation training. Recognizing her passion for education, KSB further supported Avin by helping her secure a scholarship opportunity to pursue higher education at Asumbi Teachers Training College, where she is currently pursuing a Diploma in TeacherEducation.
To support her academic journey, KSB also provided her with a laptop installed with JAWS screen-reading software. This assistive technology has enabled her to access digital learning materials, conduct research, complete assignments independently, and actively participate in her studies.
Today, Avin is more confident, independent, and hopeful about her future. What once seemed impossible has now become achievable through rehabilitation, assistive technology, and educational support. Her story reflects the transformative impact of rehabilitation services and demonstrates how empowering persons with visual impairment with the right support canunlock their potential.
Avin’s journey is not only a story of resilience but also a powerful testimony to the life-changing work being done by the Kenya Society for the Blind in restoring dignity, independence, and opportunity to persons with visual impairment acrossKenya.
