Finding love is a universal quest, but for individuals with disabilities, the journey is often fraught with additional obstacle, Straits Times reported.

Ms Norliana Mohamed Ajam, a 40-year-old exhibition guide in Singapore, shares her experience of seeking companionship despite being born with a rare eye condition, uveitis, leaving her blind in one eye and partially sighted in the other. 

The societal perception of relationships for people with disabilities (PWDs) remains a challenge, as Ms Liana reveals, “People have said to me, ‘You are blind. Why should you be in a relationship?’”

Despite efforts from organisations like SG Enable to integrate PWDs into society, challenges persist. Psychologist Ooi Sze Jin acknowledges that while society is becoming more inclusive, individuals with disabilities may struggle to have their identities accepted. Some men with disabilities express concerns about societal expectations of the “masculine male” role and their ability to care for their partners.

The complexities extend to the realm of love and intimacy, with PWDs often facing difficulties discerning genuine love from opportunistic advances. Ms Ooi notes instances of sexual abuse and emotional harm among her clients. Additionally, family members may disapprove of relationships involving PWDs, imposing their concerns on their loved ones.

Charity organisations like SPD and initiatives like DisOrdinary Love and Love Enabled aim to address these challenges. A Kind Place, besides offering mental health services, provides training for social communication skills and educates PWDs about various relationship dynamics.

The Disabled People’s Association’s DisOrdinary Love program focused on sex and relationships education through workshops, while Love Enabled, a docu-series, showcased PWDs navigating the dating scene in Singapore.

Despite these challenges, success stories emerge. Individuals like Mr Bjorn Ng, an autistic student, found love at Nanyang Technological University, while Mr Shalom Lim, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, cultivated a meaningful relationship through shared interests.

The message is clear – love is possible for PWDs, and they deserve the opportunity to choose their partners based on mutual connection and understanding.