By Gareyson Yaba Neufville
A 70-year-old blind man, Peter S. Cooper, is urgently appealing for humanitarian assistance after a fire destroyed his home in the Middle Sear Community, leaving him homeless and in distress.
Mr. Cooper, who is visually impaired, said the fire completely consumed his residence, destroying all his belongings and worsening his already difficult living conditions. Speaking to reporters, he expressed confusion and anguish over the incident.
“I can’t tell where the fire came from. Up to now, I am confused and don’t really know where to start from, especially considering my condition,” he said.
Following the disaster, Mr. Cooper is currently staying with his sister in the New Kru Town Community, where he depends heavily on family support for his daily needs.
He described his situation as extremely difficult, noting that his blindness makes it even harder to rebuild his life or secure independent shelter. He said a modest two-bedroom house—or even a small two-room apartment-would be enough for him and his young son, who is under his care. He added that he already owns a piece of land where construction could take place.
Mr. Cooper also disclosed that his personal life has been affected by his disability, saying he is currently unmarried after his wife left him due to the challenges associated with his blindness.
Despite these hardships, he remains hopeful and is appealing to humanitarian organizations, government institutions, and compassionate individuals to assist him in rebuilding his home and restoring dignity to his life.
“I will appreciate any help from anyone,” he added.
The incident underscores the vulnerability of persons with disabilities during disasters, particularly in communities with limited emergency response systems and social support services.
