Chevanese Clayton. - Contributed

Angelo Laurence, Gleaner Writer

MANDEVILLE, Manchester:

A smile is one of the few things that can mask the inner-thoughts of a person who may be hurting, even those too young to understand just what is happening to them.

For seven-year-old Chevanese Clayton, the sky was always blue, the grass green and the rainbow the prettiest flag in the sky. However, her world faded on November 30, 2006, as, while playing with schoolmates at the McIntosh Memorial Primary School in Williamsfield, a ball was thrown that hit her in the left eye. Grimacing from pain, she was packed and sent home with a note to her parents Heather and Stafford Clayton.

Within a short time, despite her parents' best efforts and numerous consultations with doctors, Chevanese lost sight in her left eye.

Her parents have so far received no assistance from the Ministry of Education and Youth while their financial situation is now desperate.

When contacted, the local representative of the Education Ministry refused to comment on the matter.

Mrs. Clayton, while holding back the tears, said she has been advised by her doctors that Chevanese will soon lose sight in her right eye, rendering her totally blind if she does not undergo an operation to relieve the mounting pressure on that eye.

Nowhere to turn

With nowhere to turn for help, the parents are hoping that a generous Jamaican public will hear their plight and come to their daughter's assistance. One businessman, Lennie Moulton of Mandeville Cash and Carry Supermarket, has already given some financial assistance and is hopeful that other persons will offer additional assistance.

Chevanese's parents can be reached at 466-9892 for more information.