- Stories
The Skilled Driver Who Lost His Sight
Forty-year-old Saidi Mohamed, a resident of the Tiwi area in Kwale County, enjoyed over a decade as a professional driver. Known for his dedication and conscientiousness, Saidi had a spotless driving record, earning his employer’s high regard. However, a silent threat began to cloud his world: his eyesight started to fail.
Initially, Saidi kept his vision problems to himself, his demanding work schedule leaving no room for a hospital visit. He pressed on, unaware of the extent of the deterioration. His days began at 5:00 AM, navigating routes to transport passengers, a job he approached with pride and a commitment to excellent service.
One fateful day, while on duty, Saidi’s worsening vision nearly led to disaster. He failed to see an oncoming vehicle, and only the terrified screams of his passengers alerted him to the imminent head-on collision. His quick swerve averted a potentially fatal accident, but the near miss shook him deeply.
Frustrated and scared, Saidi made the difficult decision to resign from his driving job. For almost two years, he withdrew from the world, isolating himself at home. It was his mother’s persistent encouragement that finally persuaded him to seek medical attention.
At the hospital, tests revealed the underlying cause of his struggles: diabetes. Later, attending an eye screening organized by the Kwale Eye Centre, he received a further diagnosis of cataracts in both eyes.
Fortunately, surgery restored Saidi’s vision, bringing immense joy and gratitude. “Being dependent on others is very heartbreaking,” he shared, reflecting on his period of sight loss. With renewed vision, Saidi eagerly anticipates returning to work and providing for his family. The experience of feeling helpless and vulnerable without sight has instilled in him a deep empathy. He now passionately urges others facing similar issues: “Mapema ndio best” – earlier is better. Seek help promptly, he advises, before it’s too late.
