Malachys Diary page 5

We had a big battle on our hands, but we knew that Mal was well capable of learning and he deserved the chance. Mal had to stay at home for 10 months without any school and with no support. We then heard of a network for people with disabilities and children who need help with educational problems. They sent a representative with us to a meeting with the education board. After many meetings the Educational board decided to pay the fees for Mal to attend the school of our choice. Mal remained at school very happy till he was 18 years old.

During those early years a group of parents got together and set up the “Deaf-Blind-Rubella association”. They got people involved to help raise money which they used to take some children on holiday every year and to give there parents a welcomed break. After a lot of hard work eventually the first college was opened which was the start of great things to come for young Deaf-blind people. They also opened a house which offered help and support for parents and young children.