For Dean and Visa love is truly blind
THEY might not gaze into each other’s eyes, but love-birds Dean and Visa Pillay can feel the love by just being in each other’s presence.
Having met at the KwaZuluNatal Blind and Deaf Society in 2003, the Chatsworth couple knew they had found their soul mates and tied the knot five years later.
The secret to their love lies in trust, understanding and knowing they can count on each other for support, they said.
“We both are also very spiritual and that contributes to the success of marriage,” said Visa, 51.
Added Dean, 59: “We have accepted each other and are very compatible, very comfortable in each other’s company.”
Visa said the excitement that came from meeting Dean stemmed from the transition from loneliness to having a companion and human touch close by.
“It was a pleasant surprise because when I proposed I was unsure of how she would respond,” said Dean. “But I was delighted when she said yes.”
They are totally blind and they do everything together, including all household chores and cooking. “We use special coding or Braille markings to identify items like spices, containers, canned food and clothing. We also have two pet dogs and two birds that we care for and love,” said Dean.
The couple both work in the disability sector and share a passion for making a difference in the lives of others, which they said contributes to their happy and fulfilling relationship. While the Pillays don’t have children, they host children from various orphanages over some weekends and school holidays with the aim of sharing parental love.
To celebrate the month of love, the KwaZuluNatal Blind and Deaf Society is hosting a Valentine’s dinner and dance on Saturday, February 11.
Tickets for the event, which will be held at the Elangeni Hotel at 6pm, are R500 per person or R5 000 for a table of 10. It includes a three-course meal, great music and lucky draw prizes.
To book, call 083 775 4991 or e-mail fr@bdskzn.org.za.