Kimesha Walters, Gleaner Writer

Vivian Blake is an administrative assistant at the Office for Special Student Services at the University of the West Indies, Mona. - photo by Kimesha Walters

Persons with disabilities have been making significant strides on the road to success. at the University of the West Indies, Mona, for over two years. He was born in Pedro Cross, St Elizabeth, but grew up at the Salvation Army School for the Blind.

Extraordinary support

Blake, who has an upper second-class honours degree in social work, recalls his childhood days as pleasurable.

"I think I had some extraordinarily supportive siblings and parents who probably went the extra mile for my happiness," said a jovial Blake, reminiscing with a broad smile.

Blake explained that he used to go bird shooting with his brother and played cricket with other friends who always accommodated him.

However, life has not always been easy for Blake.

"The main challenge I face is encountering a new environment, but it's a matter of time before you get used to it and get confident," said Blake. He also expressed his disgust at the insensitivity of some people to his disability. While acknowledging he doesn't expect everyone to always be kind, he is angry at the prevalence of ignorance.

A confident Blake says he gets a lot of assistance from the public. With this, he made mention of some workers at a gas station in Harbour View who make it their duty to help him to cross the road every morning.

"Mi kinda find dem ting deh remarkable. These men help me to cross the road every single day without murmuring," said Blake, who has been travelling that route for the last five to six years. He has no problem with help from the public, but says, "It's all about how the assistance is offered. Sometimes they shove it down your throat rather than ask you."

Whilby was born without legs and a left hand and uses a wheelchair to get around. The 22-year-old is a relief clerk at an insurance firm in New Kingston, where she has worked for almost two years. She was born in Green Hill, St Ann, but grew up at the Mona Rehabilitation Centre (now called the Sir John Golding Rehabilitation Centre.

As a youngster, life was fun, as she was mostly among disabled children.

"Everyone there (Mona Rehabilitation Centre) was disabled, so I didn't feel any way different," she said. But as an adult, life has changed in some ways for Whilby. "You have a few who look on you a way," she commented, frowning.

High hopes for university

Whilby attended Ardenne High School and passed seven CXC subjects. With one advanced level subject under her sleeve and awaiting the results of two others, she has high hopes of attending university to fulfil her dream.

"I want to be a chartered accountant, so I am saving money to go to university," said a beaming Whilby, who also hopes to own a house by the time she reaches 30.

She says she can manage with her own shopping at the mall, but needs assistance for some tasks.

"If you see where I need assistance, you can give it to me, but treat me like a normal person," Whilby advises the public.