Tarun Kumar, a 31-year-old resident of Dwarka, Delhi, has turned his life around after years of uncertainty and isolation brought on by a degenerative eye condition. Diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) in 2017, Tarun gradually lost over 70% of his vision. 

In 2003, he lost his father, who ran a water management and construction business. Thrust into adulthood early, Tarun had to leave his education to take care of the family business. Adding to his burdens, RP wasn’t just his own condition; his mother, brother, and sister also have RP.

In 2017, a consultation at Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital became a turning point. Tarun was advised to pursue education through open schooling and took admission in Class 10 under NIOS. But between 2019 and 2022, he found himself stuck again at home, without skills, confidence, or direction.

That’s when Tarun discovered Eyeway, a national information and support platform for the blind and visually impaired. He dialed the helpline in 2022, hoping for some clarity.

Eyeway counselors listened to his concerns, understood his limitations, and most importantly, saw his potential. They guided him to enroll in a massage therapy training program at the Delhi Blind Relief Association, helping him gain both confidence and a new skill. Encouraged by his progress, Eyeway also facilitated his re-admission to Class 12 through NIOS, provided accessible study materials, and helped arrange a scribe for his exams.

With renewed energy, Tarun reached out again in 2024 this time with a dream of financial independence. He wanted to open his own business. Eyeway connected him with the Mudra Yojana scheme, enabling him to secure a business loan. Today, Tarun proudly runs his own massage training center in Dwarka, creating not just a livelihood for himself, but opportunities for others like him.

But Tarun isn’t done yet. His next goal? A government job for long-term stability. Eyeway has already stepped in to assist, connecting him with resources for competitive exam preparation through the Manobal Deep Stambh Foundation.

What started as a  phone call became a journey of empowerment, self-belief, and renewed purpose.

Team Eyeway