After losing the use of his legs, one father is rebuilding his life—one haircut at a time
FROM a life-altering accident to overcoming obstacles with the support of family, community, and an unbreakable spirit, Jefferson ‘Jeff’ Thompson is proving that great loss does not mean giving up on one’s passion.
In the vast hills of Paruima Village, Region Seven, the 38-year-old father is rewriting his story, showing resilience in the face of adversity. Jeff’s life changed dramatically almost ten years ago when an accident not only robbed him of his mobility but also tested his mental and emotional strength. Despite the hardships, his journey is one of hope and determination, backed by unwavering support from his loved ones. With their help, he has been able to pursue his passion for barbering while rebuilding his life with a renewed sense of purpose.
The accident: learning to live again
Born in the rural village of Paruima and later moving to the fast-paced life of Venezuela, Jeff was known for his infectious jovial demeanour and profound love for life. However, his world was turned upside down when a mining accident left him buried underground for an extended period. By the time rescuers pulled him out, he had lost all mobility in his legs.
At the time, Jeff was focused on building a better future for his family. He had moved to Venezuela as a teenager in search of better opportunities and had made significant strides towards establishing a home. Recalling the dark days following the accident, Jeff shared, “After the accident, I felt very sad. It was hard because my whole life changed—from normal to this. It broke my heart to know I could not do what I was supposed to—work for my children.”
As devastating as the accident was, Jeff admitted he was unprepared for the challenges that came with recovery.

Coming back home: the recovery process
Although he received emergency medical care in Venezuela, Jeff wanted to return to Guyana, where he could be surrounded by his family and support system. One of his biggest supporters has been his younger brother, Fabio, who played a crucial role in getting him home.
With Paruima currently lacking an airstrip, Jeff’s journey back was anything but easy. According to Fabio, transporting his brother from Venezuela to Guyana proved to be incredibly difficult.
“We had to bring him in three days from Venezuela—first by bike, then by walking. We had to carry him in a hammock, taking turns. We brought him through the rain,” Fabio recalled.
Despite the difficulties, Jeff has undergone a series of medical treatments since his return, including painful surgeries and physical therapy.
“When I came home, they took me to the Georgetown Public Hospital, and I did therapy. The therapy helped me regain my balance, which was very good. But since COVID-19, I never got the chance to go back,” Jeff said.
Although he has made great strides in his health, he hopes to return to therapy. However, financial constraints have made this difficult.
Pioneering a new path: recovery through barbering
Barbering has always been one of Jeff’s biggest passions. After returning home and completing therapy, he reignited his love for cutting hair. Though he has not yet reached his ultimate goal, Jeff finds fulfilment in providing for his family and contributing to his community.
“I know my daughters have to go to school, so I started cutting hair. Just knowing that I had the talent and skills, I began cutting and trimming my brothers’ hair, and then the residents’,” he shared.
His dedication has earned him a reputation as one of the best barbers in Paruima. However, because he needs clients to adjust their positioning to accommodate him, he charges half the usual rate of $1,000 per haircut. While it isn’t much, it helps him support his family.
Jeff’s perseverance has not gone unnoticed—neither by Fabio nor the community at large.
“Jeff is doing barbering right now. He developed that passion at a very young age. When he was in high school, people knew him for his skills. Even though he is in a wheelchair, he still cuts hair,” Fabio said.

A renewed sense of purpose
With a newfound outlook on life, Jeff says his mental health has completely transformed. Inspired by his children, he now sees himself as a strong father and husband who plays an important role in their lives.
“I am happier now. The most important thing is my life. My children see my life—especially my children. I can now ensure they have a good education, and that makes me happy,” he said.
Fabio, too, has noticed the shift.
“At first, I saw in his face that he had given up. Now, he is grateful for life and for his children. Before, he would talk about not wanting to work anymore and even had suicidal thoughts. That has changed. He’s hopeful and happy with where he is now, especially with his children bringing him joy,” Fabio said.
Moving forward: support systems and big dreams
Looking ahead, Jeff has ambitious plans. He hopes to open a small barbershop in Paruima but acknowledges that finding the funds is a challenge.
“I want to open a little barbershop and a small business, but finding money is very difficult. But that’s what I always think about,” he told Pepperpot Magazine.
Beyond his own dreams, he also wants to help others who face similar struggles.
“In the future, I would like to have a charity or programme to help others. It does not have to be financially strong, but just a programme to help people like me start their lives from scratch.”
For anyone who wishes to support Jeff’s venture, he can be reached at +592 630-1688, or his brother Fabio at +592 608-8478 (WhatsApp) and elalfaciardi@gmail.com. Additionally, Paruima’s Toshao, Lee Williams, can be contacted at +592 685-1489 (WhatsApp).
Jefferson Thompson’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience, family, and passion can help overcome even the most difficult challenges.