Germiston teen who beat bone cancer needs new prosthetic leg

When Caxton last met Kaylib Timm in 2022, his smile said everything.

The Western Extension teenager had just received a prosthetic leg that allowed him to walk more comfortably and look ahead with renewed confidence after years of adversity.

Years earlier, Timm’s life changed forever when he was diagnosed with stage three Ewing’s sarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer that started in the lower bone before spreading to his bone marrow.

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Just five months into a gruelling 12-month course of chemotherapy, doctors delivered the heartbreaking news that his leg had to be amputated to stop the cancer from spreading to his lungs.

Now 17, Timm has overcome the greatest battle of his young life. But three years after receiving a prosthetic from Jumping Kids Prosthetic Fund, he faces another obstacle.

Having outgrown his prosthetic leg and with the device showing signs of wear, he urgently needs a replacement. His family, however, cannot afford the cost.

Despite everything he has endured, the bubbly teenager refuses to let his disability define him.

“Things have been alright,” Timm said. “After I got the prosthetic in 2022, life carried on.”

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Timm later received a prosthetic knee through Orthoptist Prosthetist Joos Huyzers, which improved his mobility, while a replacement foot helped extend the lifespan of the prosthesis after the original components deteriorated.

However, as he has grown taller, the prosthetic no longer fits properly.

“I walk with a bit of a limp now. I’ve adapted by swinging my leg instead of bending it and walking properly because of the height difference.”

A recent assessment by Huyzers confirmed what Timm had already begun to notice. The upper socket is worn, the foot is damaged and folding, and the prosthesis has reached the end of its useful life.

A new prosthetic would do more than improve his mobility. It would allow him to return to the activities that bring him the greatest joy.

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“I love running and playing football. With a better foot, like a carbon foot, I’ll be able to run more. It’ll make such a big difference in my life, and it’ll make me so much happier,” he explained.

Ironically, it was only after losing his leg that Timm discovered his passion for sport.

“I know it’s strange because of my disability, but that’s actually when I started loving football, running and jumping,” he said. “I play differently, but it works for me.”

Kaylib is currently completing Grade Eight through an online school after his illness interrupted his education. Although grateful for the opportunity, he misses attending a mainstream school.

“I’d gladly go back if someone could help me,” he said. “As long as it’s close enough because we don’t have transport.”

Anyone wishing to assist Timm financially or help source a suitable prosthesis can contact Brenda Maudsley on 082 877 7910 for more info.