Barbados author Ralbert Ashton has transformed personal tragedy into a powerful narrative of hope with the official launch of his memoir “Blind but not Broken” at the Barbados Council for the Disabled’s headquarters. The Wednesday event at Harambe House, Garrison, marked the culmination of Ashton’s journey from darkness to enlightenment following his vision loss.
Ashton revealed during his candid address that the immediate aftermath of his blindness plunged him into severe depression—a common but often unspoken challenge among the disabled community. “One of my first experiences when I went blind was depression,” Ashton shared, noting that many others he encountered reported similar psychological struggles.
Remarkably, Ashton’s perspective underwent a profound transformation. “I see more now that I’m blind than I can see,” he stated, characterizing individuals with disabilities as everyday heroes who navigate complex challenges largely invisible to the broader population. He emphasized the often-underestimated daily difficulties: “Walking in the shoe, if you don’t know, it is indeed a struggle… it takes a lot to get through the day.
The creative process of writing provided both therapeutic relief and purposeful direction for Ashton. He described memoir-writing as a healing mechanism and a vehicle for encouraging others to pursue their ambitions despite limitations. “I love to write. For me it’s therapeutic,” Ashton explained. “I think that persons out there who have goals and ideas can achieve those goals, and that is why I wrote the book.
While uncertain about future publications, Ashton confirmed his commitment to continuing writing in some capacity. His current work is available for $20, with enhanced accessibility options in development. “We’re in the process of doing an audiobook and an eBook for those who are blind or visually impaired,” he announced.
The launch garnered official recognition from Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Adrian Forde, who praised Ashton’s resilience as exemplary. Forde described the memoir as “a true embodiment of the courage, the resolve, the commitment, and of course the love and the energy needed in order to survive the test of time.”