Dubai father describes role as ‘eyes, ears and voice’ for deafblind sons

Fawaz Al Hasban, a Dubai father, has described his role as the eyes, ears and voice for his two sons, Ahmad and Osama, who are both deafblind. Speaking at the AccessAbilities Expo in Dubai, Al Hasban, also known as Abu Abdullah, said he sees his daily efforts not as sacrifice but as responsibility and pride.

“I am their eyes through which they see, their ears through which they hear, and their tongue through which they speak,” Al Hasban said.

Raising sons with Usher syndrome

Both Ahmad and Osama have Usher syndrome, a rare genetic condition that causes hearing loss and progressive vision loss. They also face autism and balance difficulties, which complicate communication and everyday tasks.

Al Hasban rejected any description of himself as heroic. “I don’t like people describing me as a heroic or ideal father. I’d rather be seen as a responsible man. What I do for my children is what every father should do for his family,” he said.

Communication through touch and technology

The brothers communicate using tactile sign language, which conveys information through touch rather than sight. Both studied at the Perkins School for the Blind, and Ahmad continued his education at the Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths and Adults in the United States – an achievement that Al Hasban said fills him with pride.

Assistive technology has further helped the brothers access information and communicate. Ahmad can use adapted devices to read on an iPad, open applications, read messages and send emails. Osama, who has some remaining vision, can also use an iPad.

For Al Hasban, these accomplishments demonstrate why people with disabilities must be given the tools and opportunities to learn, communicate and participate fully in society.

Family challenges and a message to parents

Beyond education, the family has sought new experiences. During a trip to Jordan, Ahmad and Osama visited challenging sites including Ajloun Castle, pushing their own boundaries. “We challenge ourselves, not others. We compete with ourselves, not with others,” Al Hasban said.

He also addressed other parents, urging them to recognise their influence on their children’s confidence and ambitions. “Your children see themselves in you. If you are strong, your child will be strong. If you break, your child will break,” he said.

He called on families to strengthen their own abilities and confidence rather than expecting their children to make progress without the same effort. Al Hasban also challenged societal views on disability, arguing that differences in ability should be seen as part of human diversity, not as a measure of a person’s worth.

Describing his children as gifts from God, Al Hasban said raising them had strengthened his patience and faith.