Gov’t Transforming Lives of Persons with Disabilities

Blondie Edwards’ journey has been shaped by personal loss and serious health challenges that resulted in the amputation of her left leg in 2022.

Prior to her illness, the Lionel Town, Clarendon resident lived an extremely active life and often rode motorcycles, drove, worked and managed daily tasks independently.

Ms. Edwards tells JIS News that illness and stress changed her life. “I have sugar; I have pressure,” she says.

Her difficulties were compounded by the violent death of her husband, leaving her to navigate grief and trauma while coping with declining health, explaining that complications eventually led to her amputation.

Through the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) Assistive Aids Grant, which is supported by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Mrs. Edwards has received $300,000 for a prosthetic leg.

“Oh man, I can’t even explain… . I’m very grateful,” she tells JIS News at the JCPD’s recent Assistive Aids Grant and Margaret Moody Scholarship awards ceremony held at the entity’s head office on Ripon Road in Kingston.

She also expresses gratitude to portfolio Minister, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., who reached out to provide guidance and support.

“Every time I pray, [he’s] in my prayers,” she tells JIS News.

Also benefiting from assistance is second-year student at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Nicola Anderson, who is a recipient of the Margaret Moody Scholarship valued at $350,000.

Ms. Anderson, who is visually impaired, is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Public Policy and Management.

She tells JIS News that the $350,000 scholarship is a “significant contribution to my educational journey and personal development”.

She notes that financial support plays a critical role in removing barriers.

“Lack of funds does limit you in terms of what you really want to do,” she points out.

Reflecting on her personal journey, Miss Anderson shares that when she resumed her schooling at age 13, after being pulled at age six due to various issues, she had no idea “that I would [be where I am today].”

Her message to others facing challenges is clear and encouraging. “If I can do it, then you can too. The sky is the limit,” she says.

Standing proudly alongside her is her aunt, Adele England Thomas, who describes the moment as deeply emotional.

“I am beyond elated. I’m so proud of her,” she says.

“Nicola is the definition of somebody that just defies the odds no matter what is stacked up against her,” she adds.

She is encouraging persons with disabilities not to allow circumstances to define their potential. “You should never let your circumstances and what you see around you determine the limit of what you can do,” Mrs. England Thomas points out.

In total, seven persons benefited from grants and scholarships valued at approximately $2.2 million.

Of the beneficiaries, two received the Margaret Moody Scholarship, while five persons were awarded Assistive Aid Grants.

Speaking with JIS News, Minister Charles Jr. says that the support is intended to meet the real, practical needs of recipients and ensure that they are equipped to live fuller, more independent lives.

He notes that the Ministry took the decision to go beyond partial assistance.

“We realise that they are all in circumstances where they need a full solution,” he says.

Minister Charles Jr. notes that the award of the grants and scholarships is a clear statement of the Government’s commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities are fully supported, empowered, and given every opportunity to reach their fullest potential.

“Through targeted interventions such as these, we are strengthening independence, expanding access to education, and reinforcing our promise that no Jamaican will be left behind,” he says.

Chairperson of the JCPD’s Social and Economic Empowerment Committee, Gloria Goffe-Smallwood, urges the beneficiaries to view the support as an opportunity for personal development and independence, encouraging them to become ambassadors for persons with disabilities and the work of the JCPD.

The Margaret Moody Scholarship Fund was created to support persons with disabilities using proceeds of a bequest by the late Margaret Moody, a long-standing friend and advocate of the disability community, with individual awards valued at $350,000.

The Assistive Aids Grant provides financial support to clients of the JCPD to help offset the cost of assistive and adaptive devices, related accessories and therapeutic services. The grant offers funding of up to $300,000 to aid beneficiaries in achieving greater independence and improved quality of life.