The life story of a young girl with a disability in Haiti

Living with a disability in Haiti requires strong determination. Between a discriminating social gaze and a blatant lack of physical and social infrastructures, the life of a person with a disability is like an obstacle course, both in accessing rehabilitation services and in attending school in the Haitian educational system and entering the job market. Joana, a person with a disability, has experienced all of these obstacles in her life, but her determination, family support and coincidental encounters with magnanimous people are among the circumstances that have made her a hero. Based on interviews with the girl, members of her family, and resource persons, this book analyzes the importance and effect of family support in the care of a disabled child, the obstacles encountered, and the opportunities gained in order to achieve school integration and professional insertion. The story of this young girl is used to advocate for the effective recognition and institutionalization of the rights of people with disabilities.