Four weeks ago, Meysam Khataminia was struggling as a newcomer from Iran.
The blind man was living in shelters and unable to find a home. Then he was targeted by a thief.
Initially, they tried to take his mobile phone and then stole his white cane.
“I was very, very, very nervous at the moment,” he told Global News. “I was shocked. I didn’t know how can I do, but I immediately called police with my phone, 911.”
With the help of some Good Samaritans, Vancouver police retrieved the cane.
“Our officers were able to get into the area quite quickly and with the help of these good Samaritans who were watching the suspect we were able to locate the suspect nearby,” Vancouver police Sgt. Steve Addison said.
Justin Jeremy Heron, 37, was arrested and charged with one count of robbery.
One month later, Khataminia has a new home, and the concert pianist has performed at a few events.
“I (am) so excited, I (am) very happy about that. So, I appreciate it,” he said.
“I am feeling safe, and I am very comfortable here. I am relaxed,” he added.
Khataminia says he has a PhD in Persian literature and when his English improves, he would like to teach again.
Grateful for the help he has received since the theft of his cane, Khataminia said “Vancouver is awesome.”
“People are awesome here and I love Vancouver. I love people,” he added.
Khataminia’s dreams of a better future in Canada now appear to be starting to come true.