Un Nuevo Comienzo (A New Start)
Born with retinitis pigmentosa, Randall didn’t experience any debilitating vision issues until his early 20’s. He owned a transportation business, was married, and had two children. But by age 28, he had lost his vision, his company, and his self-esteem.
“I thought life was over for me. People who are blind don’t work in Costa Rica. I was bullied and humiliated because of my disability. I just stayed in the house.
“Then, God allowed me to arrive in this great country,” said Randall.
Randall immigrated to the US to start over. He wanted to work and be independent again. He wanted to be treated as a whole person. But he spoke very little English, knew no one, and couldn’t see.
“I was always a positive person, but after losing everything, I was filled with great sadness. My life had no meaning. I didn’t believe in myself anymore,” he said.
A friend told him about Bosma and not long after, he met with Adjustment Counselor, Michelle Shaffer. “I was very nervous, but she was so positive. I met other people who are blind and began to think there was hope for me,” Randall explained.
Eleven months later, he started the rehabilitation program at Bosma and has never looked back. Randall went through the entire program, learning personal and home skills alongside others who are blind, but his favorite
classes were in manual skills.
“I have always loved machines, trucks, diesel, oil. I started to believe I could work again,” he said.
All this, and Randall couldn’t speak or write English. Bosma provided an interpreter, and Randall stepped up to the challenge. Hard work never scared him.
Just before the end of his program, Bosma’s Employment Services approached him and asked if he was interested in a job. Randall couldn’t believe his dream of working again was coming true.
Today, he works on the glove line at Bosma Enterprises and is one of the fastest packers in the building. He is always among the first to arrive and the last to leave. “I love my job and always give my best.
Randall’s goals? “I want to learn English and someday have my own business again.
“Bosma taught me to fight for myself, speak for myself, and believe in myself again. It’s a great institution with great people who help others who are blind reach their goals and objectives. I can’t thank them enough,” he
said.
¡Bienvenido a America, Randall! (Welcome to America, Randall!)