Patel Prabha Jayantilal (37) of Bapunagar, Ahmedabad is orthopaedically disabled since the age of three. Despite the will, her poor parents were unable to fund Prabha’s education and she had to be married off at the early age of 18.

Things went on smoothly for a few years. But her destiny had something different in store. Prabha lost her husband and the entire burden of bringing up her two children fell on her. Because of her disability, finding an employment became a Herculean task for Prabha. She started making incense sticks at home. But all the money she made from it went on getting bread and butter for the family. She did not have enough to spend on her children’s education. 

For long she was planning to start a business of her own, but resources was a problem. But one fine day, she came to know about the kiosks provided by Smile Foundation through the Blind People's Association. She approached the Blind People’s Association for the purpose and after proper enquiry Prabha was handed over the kiosks.

Today, Prabha operates a PCO in the kiosk and also sells eatables. She is planning to sell incense sticks, which she herself makes. Her children also help her run the kiosk after the school hours.

Prabha is not only earning a livelihood, her business has also given a boost to her self-confidence. “I can start selling more things and make much more money now,” says she with pride.