Mr. Rajesh Kumar, a 38-year-old school teacher from Warangal, walked into our clinic with a heavy heart and very little vision. He had lost all vision in one eye, and the better eye had only 2/60 vision. Reading, walking alone, recognizing faces, and even seeing his own children clearly had become impossible.
He had lost his job because of poor vision. He was told nothing more could be done. His confidence was gone, and he began to feel like a burden to his family. “I can’t teach. I can’t even cross the road by myself,” he said quietly during his first visit.
But his story didn’t end there.
Low Vision Assessment & Support
We performed a full low vision evaluation to understand what he could still see and what daily tasks he struggled with. More importantly, we listened to his needs and fears.
We introduced him to a range of low vision devices and solutions,
With regular training (low vision aid and mobility),he slowly returned to doing things on his own.
A New Beginning
Three months later, something incredible happened: he got a job as an online teacher in a government-supported education program for the visually impaired. Using his video magnifier and other aids, he confidently taught students again from home.
He told us, “I thought my life was over. But now I have my job back. I can take care of my family. I feel alive again.”
Why Early Referral Matters
This is not just one success story. Many people like Mr. Rajesh live in silence, believing nothing more can be done. But with the right low vision care, they can live independently, work again, and find joy in life.
We urge all ophthalmologists and eye care professionals:
Refer your patients with low vision early. With timely support, we can help them make the most of their remaining vision and their lives.
Government-supported programs relevant for visually impaired educators in India
1. SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active-Learning for Young Aspiring Minds)
2. PM eVidya (One Nation One Digital Platform)
3. National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD)
4. Vision Empower – Pragya Teacher Training Program
5. Youth4Jobs Foundation – Skilling & Employment for the Disabled
6. Inclusive Education under Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan
7. Digital India e-Learning Platforms
8. National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM)
9. IGNOU Special Study Centres for Persons with Disabilities
10. Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India Campaign)
Let me know if you want a short description for each.
