Young disabled girl gifted with first wheelchair

After being approached by a caring resident, Mall@Carnival helped make a life-changing difference to a disabled child.

Khothatso Hlophe, a Dalpark Extension One resident, approached the mall for assistance after meeting Ntando Zungu, a nine-year-old paraplegic, earlier this year.

“She was in a three-wheel stroller that was in a very bad condition,” explained Hlophe.

“I asked her mother why she is still in a stroller and she explained that she had never owned a wheelchair as they cannot afford it.

“The mother and daughter are renting out a shack in the Emandleni informal settlement just opposite Wattvile in Benoni.

“Their living conditions are quite heartbreaking, to say the least; however, at that particular point my wish was to find this little girl her first wheelchair.”

Hlophe approached Mall@Carnival for a wheelchair donation.

“They promised to get back to me, which they did,” said Hlophe.

“Mall@Carnival donated a wheelchair as promised and even went the extra mile to make the little girl’s birthday extra special with a lot of vouchers, a cake and hampers.

“I would like to shine a spotlight on our caring mall for making a difference in this girl’s life. I would like to say big ups to them for engaging me, their customer, to be able to do what I am passionate about, which is community-building and changing people’s lives.

“They have also given me a chance to be proud as a development practitioner as well as a traditional healer to be able to be part of such an incredible moment.”

The official hand-over of the wheelchair and other donated goods took place on September 17, the day before Ntando’s birthday.

Sandy Turner, general manager of Mall@Carnival, told the Herald it was a great honour to help Ntando and her mother, Bonisiwe.

“Mall management, together with Dis-Chem, donated the wheelchair and some treats and vouchers from stores in the mall for her birthday,” she said.

“We salute Khothatso for her passion and determination in making every effort and difference to assist the needy by approaching organisations like ourselves. Together, we will continue assisting wherever possible.”

Hlophe appealed to individuals and businesses who would like to contribute to improving the well-being of the Zungu family to get in touch.

She can be contacted via email at info@sfpele.co.za or 073 342 8635.

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