With the right support, people living with disabilities can overcome challenges and remain active – a message brought to life at Nurture Health iLembe’s annual sports day.

The Ballito rehabilitation centre hosted its sixth edition of the event in support of Casual Day last Friday.

Nurture Health iLembe provides physical rehabilitation and care for people living with disabilities as a result of disease or injury.

The sports day went ahead indoors because of the gloomy weather, with patients participating in five games – goal getter, bean bag pong, baloodle, slide and strike and cornhole. Family and friends joined the day’s activities, along with several outpatients who had previously received treatment at the hospital.

One former patient, Ayesha Chetty said she returned for the sports day because of the support she received during her rehabilitation.

“They really helped me, I couldn’t speak, my family struggled to understand me. But now I can speak properly.” she said.

She thanked everyone who had helped her, from doctors and occupational therapists to cafeteria staff. She said returning to support the community that had supported her felt like the right thing to do.

Through events like the sports day, Nurture Health iLembe raises money and encourages people living with disabilities to remain active despite the challenges they may face.

Current patient Pretty Mkhwanzi said the activities gave her an opportunity to socialise.

“It is good to see other patients and let the mind think on positive things,” she said.