A visually impaired Afghan refugee is building a new life in Australia with the support of the AMES team at Dallas.

Hossein, his wife Soghra and their three children have been living in Australia since November 2023.

The family, originally from Afghanistan, came from Iran and has now settled in Melbourne, with no other relatives living here.

Having had a horrific accident at a factory 25 years ago, Hossein has been left visually impaired.

But through the support of AMES and a new phone designed to help him, Hossein has been able to improve his quality of life.

“We’re very satisfied with the support we have received,” said Soghra, adding that the family is also attending English classes.

AMES was there for the family every step of the way during the entire process of settling in Australia, with the housing team helping Hossein’s family find permanent accommodation.

AMES staff also referred Hossein to the NDIS and Vision Australia to help him with his medical situation, and so he can acquire the opinion of a specialist and to explore new options to improve his vision.

Life as a visually impaired individual has also become a bit easier to navigate through the help of a new phone, originally provided to the family by 7-Eleven.

“The phone allows me to listen to audio files, music, as well as receive calls,” Hossein said.

With the help of his family, he has been able to download government apps, such as MyGov and Centrelink, and navigate through them.

“We’re very satisfied with the help the phone has provided. We can now call and text him. It has been a great help,” Soghra said.

While his everyday life has improved, Hossein has been told by doctors that there is no cure for his condition.

Even if doctors operate, it is not guaranteed that his eyesight will be restored.

The family is now exploring whether he can be given a lens or special glasses that can help him improve his vision.

The assistance AMES has provided allows the family to access services more easily, which is vital to give Hossein the help he needs.

“We are happy so far with our life here in Australia,” says the family.

Their son, Abbas, is studying at Melbourne Polytechnic to become an electrician.

“I think my brother wants to follow a path similar to mine, but our sister hopes to become a teacher,” Abbas said.

Hossein and Soghra are keen to see their kids finish their education and be on a path towards successful careers.