Being visually impaired means facing numerous challenges in life. The world becomes dark in their eyes, and the burden grows heavier when confronted with societal stigma, which often leaves deep emotional scars.
The sadness of becoming blind is not something anyone typically experiences. Losing one’s sight can have a profound psychological impact, making a person feel as though they’ve lost their identity and autonomy.
Initially, feelings of sadness and confusion dominate. Questions constantly arise: how can I see again? How can I understand this complex and beautiful world without my eyes? Each day, there’s a reliance on others for basic tasks like self-care or moving from one place to another. It’s not only exhausting but also makes a person feel weak and powerless.
However, this sadness is not everlasting. With time and dedication, the body begins to adapt to new ways of functioning. People with visual impairments learn to use touch and sound to understand their surroundings. Technology has also advanced rapidly to help them live more independently. For instance, braille, a system of reading and writing through touch, has become a close companion for many blind individuals. Though initially hard to believe, braille helps them read and write with ease.
The blind community is also very close-knit. They support each other, sharing stories about how they cope and thrive. There are organizations dedicated to helping the blind, such as rehabilitation centers and special training facilities. Here, they are taught new techniques to care for themselves and interact with the world.
An Advocate for the Blind
Tutus Setiawan (35), who became blind at the age of 8, has long thought about the progress of his fellow blind individuals. "I founded this community in 2003, when I was still in college. I saw that the problems faced by visually impaired individuals in Surabaya were vast, especially discrimination in many areas," said Tutus, who has since completed his master’s degree at the State University of Surabaya (Unesa).
Tutus then invited four of his blind friends—Sugi Hermanto, Atung Yunarto, Tantri Maharani, and Yoto Pribadi—to establish LPT (the Institute for the Empowerment of the Blind).
This institute became a platform for the blind in Surabaya to continue learning and training, enhancing their skills to be able to thrive in society.
Tutus aims to challenge the societal stigma that visually impaired individuals are limited to informal sectors such as massage therapy, teaching, or playing music. He believes they have the potential to pursue careers in broader fields.
The results have been remarkable. For example, Alfian (17), a senior high school student at SMA Negeri 8 Surabaya who diligently trained and studied Information Technology at LPT, recently won second place in the Global IT Challenge held in Jakarta.
Tutus' story is an inspiration to everyone, proving that the sadness of becoming blind is not the end—rather, it marks the beginning of an ongoing struggle.
Each day is an opportunity to move forward and chase dreams, albeit in unique and powerful ways. This is the true story of how people can rise from the depths of sorrow to take steps that are more stable and independent.
Tutus’ efforts as an advocate for the blind earned him the SATU Indonesia Awards in 2015. (*)
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