Nurse Losing Her Sight Alleges Discrimination After Being Denied Exam, Seeks Support to Study Abroad

A 25-year-old Nigerian nurse, Uche, has shared her emotional journey of progressive vision loss, alleged discrimination, and resilience as she strives to advance her career in mental health nursing.

 

Uche, who graduated as a registered nurse in 2022, began working shortly after completing her studies. However, her life changed in October 2024 when she was diagnosed with Optic nerve atrophy, a condition that gradually damages the optic nerve and leads to worsening vision.

 

As her sight began to deteriorate, she was forced to stop working, a development she said led to a period of depression and uncertainty.

 

Despite the challenges, Uche said she found the courage in 2025 to continue pursuing her ambition of becoming a mental health nurse.

 

“I needed that qualification not just for myself, but to help others struggling with mental health challenges,” she said.

 

She applied to a nursing school in Nigeria and disclosed her condition ahead of time. However, she alleged that on the day of the entrance examination, she was denied the opportunity to participate.

 

According to her, exam officials questioned why she applied despite her condition, while the school’s provost reportedly told her to “write the ones you can see and leave the ones you cannot see.”

 

The incident left her deeply hurt.

 

“I carried the pain of those words for months,” she said.

 

After sharing her experience on TikTok, Uche said she received widespread support and encouragement from viewers.

 

Motivated by the response, she applied to schools abroad and secured admission into one. However, she now faces financial constraints due to the high cost of tuition and living expenses.

 

To support her education, she has launched a fundraiser on GoFundMe, appealing to the public for assistance.

 

Uche says her story highlights the need for greater inclusivity in Nigeria’s education system, especially for individuals experiencing health challenges.

 

“I am someone with dreams, trying to push forward despite everything,” she said.

 

MESSAGE us @ https://Wa.me/+2348072633727 for business relationship, Advert, PR, Publicity, Awareness, Interviews, Feature Stories, Press Release/Statement and so on…

 

Her experience has since sparked conversations online about equal access to education and the importance of accommodating students facing medical conditions.