Uganda Society for Disabled Children
The Facilitator
Gladys Drabezu is a Community Development Worker in Vurra subcounty, Arua District. Her first encounter with USDC was in early 1995. She immediately started referring children with disabilities from her village, Nyio, to the USDC office.
"I was still not satisfied, since I was not participating fully in the rehabilitation process of the children I referred," Gladys remembers. She lobbied USDC to introduce its community based programme to Vurra subcounty.
One of USDC's first tasks was to organise training for facilitators. Each village was asked to nominate a volunteer. Because Gladys had already clearly identified herself with disability issues, she was automatically selected.
Gladys was trained to identify different disabilities, to advise children and parents on appropriate rehabilitation and to refer complex cases to specialised services. She was then even better armed to assist her community.
Her track record is impressive. She has established a successful epilepsy clinic in Nyio. She has visited most families in the parish who have a child with disabilities. She has even organised awareness raising seminars at parish level throughout Vurra subcounty.
Gladys's enthusiasm is obvious. "With the knowledge gained, I have managed to identify children with disabilities in my village and elsewhere. I have even participated in working out solutions to their problems. I am happy I can be of some use to my people."
The benefits extend further than her role as a facilitator. "The training provided by USDC has also given me more confidence to carry out my other duties as a Community Development Worker."
The community's respect for Gladys is evident. A neighbour was recently overheard saying, "This woman is a truly committed volunteer. Very few people will work without payment."
Gladys continues her tireless campaign.