Late Deafened Adults (LDA), a body of Deaf adults recently visited the family of Florence Umukoro, a deaf girl who threatened suicide owing to maltreatment by her parents and clerics who accused her of being demon-possessed.
A statement received by our correspondent revealed that the group, led by its founder, Dr. Tola Odusanya made it clear to the family that they were not there to restore Florence’s hearing or any such thing but rather to help them understand and accept their Daughter’s Deafness and how best to support her.
Accompanied by Messrs. Isyaku, Ezekiel Okeh and Olaoluwa Bayonle Emmanuel (Sign Language Interpreter), Dr. Odusanya enlightened the family on Deafness while citing members of LDA, who despite their deafness, are living meaningful and dignified lives. He assured them that Deaf people can achieve their dreams and aspirations if given the right support.
Florence’s parents agreed that she is brilliant and believe she will someday become somebody.
While communicating by writing, Florence indicated interest in resuming her studies and got prompt assurance she will soon return to school.
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Florence, who holds materials very close to her eyes while reading has sight problems requiring urgent medical attention. The family have been directed to a general hospital for check up before further action could be taken.
To help with Florence’s education, the group recommended a number of deaf schools that could help meet Florence’s unique needs. As at press time, funds for enrolling her into a school are still being contributed by members of LDA.
Dr. Tola presented an autographed copy of his book – basic sign language- to Florence to encourage her learning. Both parents were amazed at the simplicity of the language.
Dr. Tola, a lecturer at Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, encouraged Florence to learn to sign letters of the alphabets and Florence was able to learn and spell her name on the spot.
Mr. Okeh, a member of LDA narrated to Florence’s brother how his siblings helped him cope with interactions with people around him when he became Deaf. With that, he reiterated a point earlier made by Dr. Tola on how siblings especially are a strong support system for Persons with Disabilities. Florence’s brother learned to sign the alphabets along with her.
The family was grateful to everyone in that group for the warmth and love shown to Florence.