Phuket holds activities for the disabled
PHUKET CITY: Phuket yesterday held early activities to mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities, held annually on December 3.
More than 200 disabled people attended the event, which began at 10am at Phuket Rajabhat University Convention Hall.
Activities included an exhibition aimed at informing disabled people of their rights, a legal consulting service, job application assistance and even free haircuts.
There was also a stage show featuring disabled performers.
More than 20 wheelchairs were among the free gifts given to participants by donor organizations including the Red Cross, Phuket Provincial Administration Organization and tambon administration organizations.
One wheelchair user, 68-year-old Somchai Chanchaiwut, said it was the first time he had attended such an event.
“The services are very impressive,” he said. “But more than anything, it is really good to find out how many benefits I’m entitled to as a disabled person.”
“If I hadn’t come here, I would never have known,” he added.
The UN has designated December 3 as International Day of Persons with Disabilities since 1982.
The day aims to promote the full participation of disabled people in social life and development as well as prevention and rehabilitation measures.
Phuket Governor Wichai Phraisa-ngop presided over the opening of yesterday’s event, which was held under the slogan “Disabled People Power for Society”.
In front of His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s image, the governor was presented with a list of over 1,200 disabled people in Phuket which has been compiled by health care volunteers over the past year.
The list will help authorities to better direct services to the disabled. It was compiled in honor of HM The King’s 82nd birthday on Saturday.
“Many disabled people were once proud people who sacrificed themselves for this country’s benefit,” Gov Wichai said. “Nobody wants to have to rely on others for help.”
The governor said he was glad to know so many organizations were placing importance on the disabled by identifying them and encouraging their full inclusion in society.
“Some disabled people are afraid to go out in public for various reasons,” he said.
“Thank you to anyone who looks after them and brings them for treatment.”
— Sitthipong Nongkeaw
