A smile is a gift that is given freely and received with gratitude. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is hope.

As Casual Day (September 1) draws closer, Caxton Local Media shares inspirational stories of people who live with impairments but continue to share their smiles with the world.

The National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities’ annual fundraising campaign concludes on Casual Day and this year’s theme, #ShareASmile, aims to promote kindness, goodwill, and positivity in support of persons with impairments in South Africa.

Edenvale Paralympian pushes forward despite the odds

Edenvale resident and Paralympian rower Sandra Khumalo’s life changed dramatically after she was involved in an accident while on her way to work at a private game reserve in the Kruger National Park. The incident happened in February 2005 when she was 21 years old.

Her inspirational journey saw her qualify for the 2012 London Games in the women’s single sculls, after she won a silver medal at the final qualification regatta in Belgrade, Serbia.

Read her story on Bedfordview and Edenvale News.

The adventures of Stompie and Caesar: The journey of a man and his best friend

Daniel ‘Stompie’ Oosthuizen (36) lost his leg in a motorcycle accident when he was 18, and has been living on the streets for nine years. His companion and best friend is Caesar the dog.

Oosthuizen speaks about the adventures he and Caesar have gone through, including health scares and surviving many hardships.

Read their story on Springs Advertiser.

Moffat View safety ambassador Isaac shares a smile with us

Safety ambassador Isaac Davis (54), who is based at Moffat View Police Station, says despite living with an impairment, he has no regrets.

He used to be a bodybuilding instructor at a gym in central Johannesburg, but that all changed 27 years ago when he was shot twice – in the stomach and neck – at a 21st birthday celebration in South Hills.

However, he continues to live his life to the fullest without any regrets.

Read his story on Southern Courier.

Buy your sticker

In support of Casual Day, individuals and organisations are encouraged to purchase stickers (R20 each) and specially branded merchandise and to wear them with pride on September 1.

Stickers are available at these outlets:

• Associations of and for Persons with Disabilities (APDs),
• Government departments,
• Schools,
• Alpha Pharm,
• BKB,
• Eskort,
• Clicks,
• Jam Clothing,
• Jet,
• Loot Online,
• The Hub,
• Finbond
• Toys R Us
• or visit Casual Day online

You can also get your personalised digital Casual Day stickers online at the Casual Day website.