Braille

Braille is a method of reading and writing for visually impaired people using six dots.  Introduced to the world by Louis Braille who was born in France in 1089, nobody can confirm how many people have had their lives fulfilled using Braille as a method of communication.

If I look back of my experiences over the last seventeen years counseling low vision and blind individuals, I have met many children and adults who were losing their sight and needed the Braille system. I have taught Braille to more than ten adults and children who were interested in learning. I am happy when I realize that some of these individuals are doing well in their lives today. Some children who originally thought Braille was a barrier are now reaching high educational levels.

It is really interesting to talk about Braille because some people view it as a different and difficult language. It is not. When some visually impaired individuals have to follow Braille they have refused to learn due to the shame and stigma attached, as they are not completely blind.

As mentioned it is thought Braille is a difficult subject to learn. Before teaching Braille to anyone, especially individuals losing their sight we have to struggle with the negative attitudes. To do this we have to be patient for a long time and make a great effort.

I have experienced some cases that when an individual finally realizes that Braille is the only way for them it is too late. I would like to share with you an experience I have had.

Ruchira Senevirathna was from Nugawela girls’ school. I came to know her when she was in grade nine. Doctors advised that her deteriorating vision could not be regained for her to study in a mainstream school. As a result, we had to introduce her to the system of Braille.

Her parents were reluctant to her being taught Braille and wanted her to continue her studies using the method of handwriting. Ruchira herself thought it to be an impossible task that she could not achieve. A great effort was required to change her negative attitudes and make both Ruchira and her parents aware of the value and potential of studying using Braille.

Now she is happy with the donation of a Braille slate from the WDC and is continuing her studies. I managed to teach her Braille within a short time period. She is grateful to the WDC and studying at the Tangalla blind school. Her ambition is to enter university for future higher studies.

By Biso Manike Greru

Consultant

WDC