Biblical Streets: Blind furniture maker seeks assistance

Life wasn't always hard for Kenneth Clarke. Back in the days he was one of the most sought-after furniture makers and even gained employment in The Bahamas for several years.

But he later contracted two eye diseases that blighted his independence. Upon the arrival of the news team, Clarke flashes a warm smile as he lies on an untidy bed at his Mark Lane residence.

His wooden structure is extremely small and only has space for his small bed and a standing fan.

He told THE STAR that he fell on hard times after he lost his vision a few years back.

"My eyesight started going in about 2010 after I developed cataracts and glaucoma. After I contracted Chik-V, me lose it all and because a dat me can't work and me was an independent man. So fi a depend on people for some tings rough bad," he said.

Currently, the elderly man survives from the little that he gets from one of his daughters and says he would appreciate whatever assistance of food and clothing items he could get.

"I would really like a bit of help. I am a Christian and although I am in this position, I try to motivate people whenever I get the chance. I go to church, but the church people don't really help and I won't beg them anything. The Good Samaritan Inn (on Geffrard Place, off Heroes' Circle) helps out at times, but sometimes I don't have anyone to take me there. I am really strong, but I just can't work because I cannot see," he said.

The 79-year-old man said although he was told by doctors that he will not regain his sight, he continues to takes the eyedrops to prevent his eyeballs from bursting.

(Persons wishing to assist Kenneth Clarke may contact him at 876 286-9827.)