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Giseli Camillo’s Story of Overcoming Adversity Highlights the Challenges of Visual Impairment and the Role of the Adimax Institute’s Guide Dog Program in Promoting Autonomy and Social Inclusion
Initially, the journey of ballerina Giseli Camillo, 47, reveals how autonomy and inclusion are still achievements to be won in Brazil. Furthermore, the dance teacher from São Paulo has had her guide dog, Faísca, for 9 months, a fact that has transformed her routine. Thus, the story highlights the challenges faced by people with visual impairments and reinforces the importance of initiatives like the Adimax Institute’s Guide Dog Program.
Since childhood, Giseli lived with limitations caused by congenital cataracts, a condition present from birth. However, despite being able to navigate by contrast, she could not see the blackboard at school. Because of this, she was often called lazy by her teachers.
A Journey Marked by Challenges and Overcoming Adversity
Additionally, during her childhood, she faced rejection from several schools and episodes of bullying. As a consequence, her mother decided to take her out of school and handled her literacy education at home, despite only having a primary school education herself.
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Later, at the age of 16, Giseli completely lost her sight. Even so, it was only at the age of 24 that she resumed her studies. She then completed her high school equivalency and graduated with a degree in physical education, in addition to specializing in dance and yoga.
Currently, she works as a teacher at the Fernanda Biachini Association in São Paulo. Additionally, she coordinates the ballet for the blind, offering opportunities to other people with visual impairments.
Autonomy Gained with a Guide Dog
Despite her professional achievements, Giseli still faced difficulties with daily mobility. She needed help to leave her house and go to work. However, this reality changed 9 months ago with the arrival of Faísca.
Now, the guide dog represents independence and autonomy. According to Giseli, the animal symbolizes love and freedom. Furthermore, he allows her to move around without depending on other people.
Consequently, her performances now feature the constant presence of her companion. Meanwhile, Faísca waits calmly during the shows.
The Role of the Adimax Institute in Inclusion
In this context, the Adimax Institute, located in Salto de Pirapora (SP), serves as a benchmark in Latin America. Currently, the institution has delivered more than 104 guide dogs, a number that represents more than half of the active animals in Brazil.
According to technical coordinator Fabiano Pereira, a guide dog goes beyond mobility. He says it is a “social passport,” as it encourages interaction and increases the visibility of people with disabilities.
In addition, the institute has a 15,000-square-meter facility, including a maternity ward, kennel, veterinary clinic, and training center. The multidisciplinary team brings together 53 employees from various fields.
The Guide Dog Training Process
Initially, the dogs spend about a year with volunteer families, known as socializers. During this period, they are exposed to different everyday situations.
Afterward, they return to the institute for training that lasts between 4 and 6 months. After this phase, the animals are prepared to work as guide dogs.
Furthermore, the dogs are delivered completely free of charge to candidates who meet the program’s requirements.
Inclusion is Still a Challenge in Brazil
Despite the progress, the number of guide dogs is still insufficient. According to the 2022 IBGE Census, Brazil has more than 7 million people with severe visual impairments.
In light of this, Giseli advocates for the expansion of public policies. According to her, it is necessary to encourage guide dog training and adapt urban spaces.
Finally, the ballerina emphasizes that people with visual impairments cannot be invisible. In this scenario, inclusion remains a real and urgent challenge in the country — how long will this reality continue to depend on isolated initiatives?
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