When there is hope, there is life
It is never easy to accept vision loss, especially when it occurs suddenly and without warning. Daily life, work and one’s place within the community are subjected to a sudden reset. Grief and hopelessness often take hold, making it difficult to see a light at the end of the tunnel.
Motebang Namane’s life took a drastic turn when he was diagnosed with optic nerve atrophy for which there is no treatment. Not only did Motebang lose his sight, but he also lost all hope he had for the future. He had just started out in his career in the retail sector and could no longer pursue his dream.
Coming to terms with his vision loss has taken Motebang several years. During this time, he met a blind community member who had received Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training from SA Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind. Motebang was intrigued when he learnt how O&M training had enabled his new acquaintance to live a life of independence, community integration and acceptance. For the first time in years, Motebang was hopeful about his future, and he decided to contact the O&M Department at SA Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind.
Rosetta Ndlovu was assigned to assist Motebang and, after a thorough consultation, put together a detailed training programme. Motebang’s training was focused on teaching him basic skills that would increase his level of independence. These included personal hygiene skills, how to clean his house and how to safely navigate his home environment. Rosetta also provided him with a liquid level indicator and taught him how to use it to safely pour hot liquids.
Once Motebang had mastered these skills of daily living, it was time for him to step out of his home and into the greater community. Rosetta taught him how to navigate his way with the aid of a white cane. They learnt the routes to his friends, neighbours and the local spaza shop. Motebang also learnt how to sign his name and how to differentiate between the various banknotes to pay for goods.
Although it has been very rewarding to see Motebang’s independence improve, Rosetta notes that what struck her most was seeing the change in Motebang’s attitude. As he became more proficient in his newly learnt skills, his confidence soared and he radiated a renewed hope for the future. Motebang’s journey is a true testament to the value of O&M training and its ability to change a person’s life for the better.
For more information about our Orientation and Mobility services, please contact Elizabeth Louw at ElizabethL@guidedog.org.za or on 011 705 3512 or visit our website (hyperlink https://guidedog.org.za/orientation-and-mobility/).
Written by Rosetta Ndlovu, Orientation and Mobility Practitioner